Germany and Netherlands draw 1-1 in Klopp and Xavi’s debuts

Jürgen Klopp and Xavi Hernández made their debut national team coaching appearances as Germany drew 1-1 with the Netherlands in an intense UEFA Nations League match at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Sept. 24, 2026. Cody Gakpo secured the draw for the Dutch with a stoppage-time volley, canceling out Felix Nmecha’s 32nd-minute opener for Germany.

Gakpo Stoppage-Time Strike Denies Klopp Victory

Cody Gakpo struck in the 92nd minute to rescue a 1-1 draw for the Netherlands against Germany in Amsterdam. Ruben van Bommel delivered a stellar cross from the left flank, which Gakpo rifled into the net to split the points. According to ESPN News Services, the result left both teams with one point in Group play, while Xavi later remarked that his Netherlands side was “better” than Klopp’s team on the night.

Controversial Goals and First-Half Incidents

Felix Nmecha put Germany ahead in the 33rd minute while parts of the Dutch team had stopped playing because Brian Brobbey went down injured. Karim Adeyemi kept playing, sending a low cross for Nmecha to finish from close range for the first goal of the Klopp era.

Germany and Netherlands draw 1-1 in Klopp and Xavi's debuts

Injuries Hit Both Squads in Amsterdam

Germany suffered a series of setbacks before and during the match, beginning when Jamal Musiala injured his thigh in the warmup. Nadiem Amiri replaced the Bayern Munich star in the starting lineup. Kai Havertz was also forced off shortly after with a hamstring problem in his other leg following a challenge from Quinten Timber, leaving both players doubtful as Germany awaits MRI results, according to ESPN. For the hosts, Sunderland striker Brobbey departed in the first half with an apparent bad hamstring injury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who scored the goals in the Netherlands vs. Germany match?

Felix Nmecha scored for Germany in the 32nd minute, and Cody Gakpo equalized for the Netherlands in stoppage time (90’+2′).

Germany and Netherlands draw 1-1 in Klopp and Xavi's debuts

Who are the new managers for the Netherlands and Germany?

Xavi Hernández manages the Netherlands, while Jürgen Klopp took charge of Germany for his first match in this fixture.

Where was the match played?

The UEFA Nations League fixture took place at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam on Sept. 24, 2026.

Pro Tip: Keep track of UEFA Nations League standings and squad injury reports as teams navigate back-to-back international windows.

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Netherlands vs Germany LIVE: Xavi and Klopp Begin New Nations League Era

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