Germany Defeats Serbia 3-1, Prepares for Crucial Match Against Netherlands

BELGRADE: Germany secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Serbia in the Nations League on Friday, setting the stage for a crucial encounter against the Netherlands in Berlin on Monday.

In a match played under heavy rain in a nearly empty stadium, Germany capitalized on an early mistake by Serbia’s Srdan Babic, who inadvertently scored an own goal. Florian Wirtz and debutant Brajan Gruda added to the scoreline, while Babic redeemed himself with a consolation goal in the second half. The match ended on a sour note for Serbia, as they finished with nine men after substitutes Vanja Dragojevic and Andrija Zivkovic were sent off late in the game.

This win positions Germany favorably as they aim for a spot in the quarter-finals, especially following the Netherlands’ dominant 7-0 victory over Greece. Germany will likely need to secure a win against the Dutch unless Serbia can pull off an upset against Greece.

Under the guidance of coach Jurgen Klopp, Germany has shown improvement, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in five matches. Klopp expressed optimism about the team’s progress, stating, “We played a truly fantastic game. I think we need to get a bit more used to the fact that we’re genuinely good — and capable of being very, very good.” He praised the team’s counter-pressing and intensity, indicating a positive trajectory as they prepare for the upcoming challenge.