Jürgen Klopp’s Germany Held to 1-1 Draw by Netherlands in Nations League

Cody Gakpo scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser as the Netherlands came from behind to draw 1-1 with Germany in Jürgen Klopp’s first match as head coach. The result also marked Xavi Hernández’s first game in charge of the Netherlands.

Germany looked on course for victory after Felix Nmecha opened the scoring in the 32nd minute. Nmecha reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the box and finished with his right foot to give Klopp’s side a deserved lead after Germany had controlled much of the first half.

The Netherlands thought they had equalised earlier when Virgil van Dijk found the net from a corner, but the goal was ruled out after VAR identified a foul by Brian Brobbey in the build-up.

Xavi’s side continued to push after the break and created several opportunities, with Marc-André ter Stegen producing a series of important saves. The pressure finally paid off in the 92nd minute when substitute Ruben van Bommel delivered a cross into the box and Gakpo volleyed home to make it 1-1.

The draw denied Klopp victory in his first game in charge, although the German coach has already signed a four-year contract with the DFB that runs through Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup.

Match Statistics

Germany Player Ratings

Netherlands Player Ratings

Softfootball reports that the late equaliser ensured neither Klopp nor Xavi could celebrate victory in their first competitive matches as international managers, with Gakpo’s finish rescuing a point for the Netherlands. Germany, meanwhile, showed encouraging signs under Klopp but were punished after failing to protect their lead until the final whistle.