In a shocking turn of events, Greece secured a 1-0 win against Germany in their Nations League match on Sunday. Substitute Dimitrios Kourbelis scored the decisive goal, which was deflected and settled the game in Augsburg. Germany's coach, Jurgen Klopp, had made five changes to his team following their 1-1 draw with the Netherlands on Thursday, seeking to give more players a chance to impress him.
Despite dominating possession, Germany struggled to threaten Konstantinos Tzolakis's goal, with midfielder Bambase Conte having an impressive debut. Klopp remained calm after the loss, stating that he was "completely unbothered" and that his team needed such matches to improve. The game was a setback for Klopp, who had been seeking his maiden victory in charge of Germany.
Meanwhile, Ireland's players showed solidarity with Gaza by wearing black armbands during their match against Israel in Hungary. The game almost did not take place due to heavy pressure on the team to boycott it over the war in Gaza. However, a player vote in midweek allowed the game to proceed. The Irish players bowed their heads as the Israeli anthem was played, and they skipped the traditional pre-match handshakes and did not exchange pennants.
Ireland won the game 3-0, with Troy Parrott and Jack Moylan scoring goals and showing their support for the Palestinian cause. However, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused the Irish team of being "on the wrong side of history" over their actions. The match took place in a near-empty stadium in Debrecen.
In another Nations League match, Portugal secured a 2-1 win against Norway, with Goncalo Ramos scoring the winner. Portugal coach Jorge Jesus had dropped Cristiano Ronaldo and was rewarded with a strong performance from his replacement, Ramos. Joao Felix gave Portugal a 17th-minute lead, but Erling Haaland equalized for Norway before Ramos scored the decisive goal.
Ramos expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating that his goal was to show what he can do whenever he's called upon and to contribute to the team. The win was a positive result for Portugal, who are looking to make a strong impression in the Nations League.
In the final match, Xavi Hernandez secured his first win as Netherlands coach with a 2-1 success over Serbia in Belgrade. Mexx Meerdink scored a brace, including a penalty, to earn the win for the Oranje. The Netherlands had exited the World Cup in the last 32, and Xavi's men were eager to bounce back with a strong performance.
Key points
- Greece stunned Germany 1-0 in their Nations League match.
- Ireland's players wore black armbands in support of Gaza during their match against Israel.
- Portugal secured a 2-1 win against Norway, with Goncalo Ramos scoring the winner.
