Germany, already through to the 2010 World Cup, needed a last-gasp equaliser by Lukas Podolski to grab a 1-1 draw with eliminated Finland in their final qualifier today.
Germany, who beat second-placed Russia 1-0 on Saturday to seal top spot in Group Four, went behind after 11 minutes.
The hosts failed to clear a header by Roman Eremenko and the ball landed at the feet of Jonathan Johansson, who netted on his 100th international appearance.
Having made six changes to the lineup that beat Russia, Germany had to wait until the 90th minute for Podolski to tap in the equaliser from close range.