Jürgen Klopp will have to wait before securing his first victory as head of Germany. For his debut on the Mannschaft's bench, the former Liverpool manager settled for a 1-1 draw against Xavi Hernandez's Netherlands, on Thursday evening in Amsterdam, in the opening match of the Nations League.
An early goal, then German resistance
Germany struck first, however. In the 32nd minute, Felix Nmecha capitalized on a poorly cleared ball following a cross from Philipp Treu to put the visitors ahead. It was a lead that Klopp's men held onto for a long time, notably thanks to a decisive Marc-André ter Stegen in his new stadium.
The Dutch had believed they opened the scoring as early as the 13th minute through Virgil van Dijk, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review for obstruction by Brian Brobbey on ter Stegen. In the second half, however, the Oranje increased their pressure and created several chances.
Gakpo's late equalizer
Through sheer persistence, the Netherlands eventually equalized. In the 90th+2 minute, Cody Gakpo met a superb cross from Ruben van Bommel to secure the 1-1 draw. A particular nod to the past, as Gakpo was once coached by Klopp at Liverpool.
'We played too little football,' Klopp admitted after the match.
The German nonetheless praised the intensity and commitment of his players, while acknowledging that there was still 'a lot of room for improvement'.
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