Jurgen Klopp's first match as Germany coach ended in a 1-1 draw against Netherlands in their UEFA Nations League clash on Thursday. Cody Gakpo scored a late equaliser for Netherlands, cancelling out Felix Nmecha's goal for Germany. The match was played in Amsterdam, where Klopp returned to the dugout for the first time since leaving Liverpool in 2024. Germany's night got off to a rocky start when they lost Jamal Musiala to injury in the warm-up.
Klopp's Germany side had a strong start, with Nmecha firing home a loose ball from close range on 32 minutes. However, Netherlands players protested furiously with the referee and their opponents as play continued with Dutch forward Brian Brobbey down injured. The visitors seemed on course for their first win at international level under Klopp until Gakpo thumped in a terrific volley in added time from a cross by debutant Ruben van Bommel.
Post-match, Klopp expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, highlighting individual displays and their passion. However, he acknowledged that Germany can play better football. The team's next match will be crucial in assessing their progress under Klopp, who replaced Julian Nagelsmann following Germany's third successive early World Cup exit. Klopp's side will look to bounce back against Greece in their next Group A2 fixture.
In another Nations League match, reigning champions Portugal secured a 1-0 win over Wales in Lisbon. Joao Felix's deflected 25-yard drive gave new Portugal coach Jorge Jesus his first win in charge. Cristiano Ronaldo missed several chances and had a goal ruled out for offside, but Portugal controlled the game and created numerous scoring opportunities.
Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes praised his team's performance, stating that they controlled the game and had many chances to score more. The win marked a positive start for Jesus, who took over as Portugal coach earlier this year. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continues to defy expectations about his international retirement, refusing to set a date for hanging up his boots at the age of 41.
In Oslo, Norway beat Denmark 3-2 in a thrilling Group A4 match. Erling Haaland scored twice for Norway, including his 64th international goal in just 56 appearances. The Danes hit back through Mikkel Damsgaard and Rasmus Hojlund, but Haaland's winner secured Norway's first win under their new coach.
Norway captain Martin Odegaard praised his team's performance, stating that they found a way to take back the lead despite being pushed back by Denmark. Norway will stay in the capital to face Portugal in their second Group A4 fixture on Sunday. Elsewhere, Greece surprised Serbia 2-1 in Belgrade to send them top of Group A2, above Germany and Netherlands.
Key points
- Jurgen Klopp's Germany debut ended in a 1-1 draw against Netherlands.
- Portugal secured a 1-0 win over Wales in Lisbon.
- Norway beat Denmark 3-2 in a thrilling Group A4 match.
