Cody Gakpo scored in stoppage time to snatch a 1-1 draw for the Netherlands at home to Germany on Jurgen Klopp’s debut in the visiting dugout in the Nations League on Thursday.
Germany led through a first-half strike from Felix Nmecha but Gakpo fired home a superb volley in the closing moments from a Ruben van Bommel cross. Netherlands Brian Brobbey went down injured in midfield but Germany played on, with Karim Adeyemi threading a pass for Nmecha to score.
The Germans resembled an energetic Klopp side early on, but after 15 minutes Van Dijk headed in from a corner, only for the goal to be chalked off after a long VAR review. The Dutch continued to push the visitors back after the goal and had cause for complaint when Germany took the lead against the run of play with 32 minutes gone. The hosts continued to lay siege to the German goal after the break. Mexx Meerdink scuffed the ball just wide with the goal beckoning on the 66th-minute mark.
Late Equaliser Highlights Host Dominance Amid Injury Concerns for Germany
The hosts secured a late equaliser, reflecting their aggressive play and dominance throughout the match, marking a significant debut for coach Xavi Hernandez in charge of the Netherlands.
Germany faced challenges with injuries, as Jamal Musiala was removed from the starting lineup due to a thigh issue experienced during the warm-up. Additionally, Kai Havertz was forced to exit the match in the first half. With three games left in this international break, these injuries could pose further difficulties for the German squad.
