Cody Gakpo Scores in Added Time as Netherlands Draw 1-1 With Germany

Cody Gakpo struck in the second minute of added time as the Netherlands rescued a 1-1 draw against Germany in their UEFA Nations League opener.

The Dutch dominated much of the match but struggled to beat Germany goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who produced a series of impressive saves to keep his side ahead for most of the game.

Playing at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, the Netherlands enjoyed around 54 percent possession and registered 22 shots, with 10 on target. Ter Stegen saved nine of those efforts. Germany managed 10 attempts, with only two finding the target.

The Netherlands thought they had taken the lead in the 13th minute when captain Virgil van Dijk headed a corner into the net. However, the goal was ruled out after a VAR review for a foul on Ter Stegen.

Germany then broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute. Felix Nmecha reacted quickest inside a crowded penalty area to fire the ball into the net from close range.

Karim Adeyemi had a chance to double Germany’s advantage before the break, but the winger remarkably sent his close-range effort over the bar.

The Netherlands increased the pressure after half-time and came close to an equaliser several times. Ter Stegen, however, continued to stand between the Dutch and a goal with several excellent saves.

The breakthrough finally came in the 92nd minute. Substitute Ruben van Bommel delivered an outstanding cross from the left after moving forward, and Gakpo raced into position to meet it with a superb first-time volley.

The match also marked Van Bommel’s international debut. He became the third member of his family to represent the Netherlands, following his father Mark van Bommel and grandfather Bert van Marwijk.

Neither side could find a winner in the remaining minutes, leaving the Nations League opener at 1-1.