Germany, Netherlands Draw As Nations League Group Stage Ends
AFP/APP
Paris: Germany rounded off their Nations League group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw in Hungary, as Dominik Szoboszlai’s penalty in the 99th minute salvaged a point for the hosts.
The draw came after Felix Nmecha had put the Germans ahead with a goal in the 76th minute. Despite the late equalizer, Germany had already secured top spot in Group A3, with Netherlands finishing in second.
Hungary, meanwhile, managed to hold onto third, while Bosnia and Herzegovina were relegated after another defeat.
“We would have liked a win to end on a high note, but we’re very satisfied with what we achieved this year,” said German midfielder Robert Andrich.
Coach Julian Nagelsmann made several changes to his starting lineup with top spot already confirmed after a dominant 7-0 win over Bosnia the previous week.
In Zenica, Netherlands were held to a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Brian Brobbey had given the Dutch the lead in the first half, but they were punished in the 67th minute when Ermedin Demirovic equalized for Bosnia.
“I’m not satisfied with a point. We had to win,” said Dutch coach Ronald Koeman, as his side finished five points behind Germany.
Meanwhile, in Group B4, Wales secured automatic promotion to the top division with a dominant 4-1 victory over Iceland. The win, coupled with Turkey’s 3-1 loss to Montenegro, saw Wales leapfrog Turkey into first place. Liam Cullen’s brace, alongside goals from Brennan Johnson and Harry Wilson, ensured the victory for the Welsh.
Czech Republic secured top spot in Group B1 with a 2-1 win over Georgia, while Ukraine climbed into second place with a 2-1 victory over Albania. Oleksandr Zinchenko and Roman Yaremchuk scored early for Ukraine, with a Nedim Bajrami penalty giving Albania a glimmer of hope before Ukraine held on for the win.
In League C, Sweden showcased their attacking strength with a 6-0 thumping of Azerbaijan to top their group. Viktor Gyokeres netted four goals in the rout, with Dejan Kulusevski adding a brace.
As the Nations League concludes its group stage, several teams look forward to 2025 with renewed optimism, while others face the prospect of relegation or playoff battles.
Comments are closed.