Leweling’s Dream Debut Sends Germany to Nations League Quarterfinals

Jamie Leweling marked his international debut with a stunning winning goal as Germany secured their place in the Nations League quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands.Leweling’s Dream Debut Sends Germany to Nations League Quarterfinals

The 23-year-old midfielder, one of two debutants for Germany, fired home a decisive strike in the 64th minute to settle a hard-fought encounter in Group A3.

Leweling had already found the net early in the match, only to be denied by an offside flag. However, he made no mistake with his second opportunity, rifling a shot into the top corner after the Dutch defense failed to clear a corner.

“The first half was exceptionally good,” said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann. “After the break they switched things around and we did not defend as well. But we fully deserved the win. We now want to win the remaining matches. We want to have continuity when it comes to the results.”

Germany dominated the match from the outset, creating numerous chances through Leweling, Tim Kleindienst, and Maximilian Mittelstaedt, while the Netherlands struggled to gain a foothold in the game.

Despite their early pressure, Germany had to wait until the second half to break the deadlock. Leweling’s goal was followed by further chances for Serge Gnabry and Mittelstaedt as the hosts continued to threaten.

The Dutch, who were largely anonymous for much of the match, almost snatched an equalizer in the 77th minute when Xavi Simons’ shot struck the crossbar. However, Germany held firm, with debutant goalkeeper Oliver Baumann producing a superb save to deny Donyell Malen in the closing stages.

“I am not satisfied by our performance,” admitted Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman. “The Germans were the better, faster and physically stronger. They created more chances. We lost too many balls in the midfield. We went too far back, that was not the plan.”

With this victory, Germany sits atop Group A3 with 10 points from four matches, guaranteeing their spot in the last eight. The Netherlands remain in second place with five points, ahead of Hungary on goal difference. Bosnia and Herzegovina are bottom of the group with one point after losing 2-0 to Hungary.