Cody Gakpo struck a dramatic stoppage-time volley to earn the Netherlands a 1-1 draw against Germany in their UEFA Nations League Group A2 opener on Thursday and denying new German manager Jürgen Klopp a winning start to his international coaching career.
The highly anticipated fixture marked the international managerial debuts for both Klopp and new Dutch head coach Xavi Hernandez both tasked with rebuilding their respective national sides following early exits at the recent World Cup.
Germany took the lead in the 32nd minute through Felix Nmecha converted from close range shortly after forward Kai Havertz was forced off with an injury. The Dutch host dominated much of the second half with recording 21 goal attempts to Germany’s 10 but were repeatedly denied by German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
The persistence of Xavi’s side paid off in extra time when Gakpo converted a cross from substitute Ruben van Bommel to secure a point for the home team.
Elsewhere in Nations League action Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway defeated Denmark 3-2 in Oslo while João Félix’s long-range strike gave defending champion Portugal a 1-0 victory over Wales. In League B, Austria earned a 3-1 victory against Israel also Greece secured a dramatic 2-1 stoppage-time win over Serbia in Belgrade.
