Thomas Muller struck a double as Germany moved to the brink of Euro 2016 qualification with a 3-2 Group D victory that left Scotland's hopes in tatters on Monday.
The Bayern Munich forward netted a brace before turning provider for Ilkay Gundogan to settle the contest after the world champions, who remain four points ahead of the Republic of Ireland with just two games remaining, were twice pegged back.
Germany's position of relative comfort is in complete contrast to the reality facing Scotland, who sit four points behind an Ireland side occupying the sole play-off place.
Joachim Low's men headed into the fixture at Hampden Park knowing a victory, coupled with Ireland losing to Georgia, would secure their place in France.
The hosts twice recovered from going behind in the opening period as a Mats Hummels own goal and neat James McArthur finish cancelled out Muller's pair. But their resolve was finally broken in the second half, with Gundogan's smart finish proving decisive.
That piece of bad luck was forgotten 10 minutes later, however, as Scotland levelled.
After Charlie Mulgrew was hauled over, Shaun Maloney whipped in a fizzing free-kick that Manuel Neuer could only push into Hummels – with the ball hitting the defender's chest and rolling into the net.
Mario Gotze switched play to an open Emre Can and, after the Liverpool midfielder's powerful strike was stopped by Marshall, Muller showed great reflexes to nod in off the inside of the post.
McArthur was the scorer of a superb equaliser, sending a side-footed 18-yard half-volley beyond Neuer after Germany failed to clear Maloney's corner.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder played a fine one-two with the outstanding Muller and slid in off the inside of the post.
