Last-gasp Niclas Fuellkrug goal rescues top spot for Euro hosts Germany
Updated On: 24 June, 2024 07:05 AM IST | Frankfurt, Germany | AFP
The result means Switzerland, rather than Germany, face a tougher last 16 assignment, setting up a potential meeting with holders Italy or 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia
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Germany`s forward Niclas Fuellkrug and Germany`s defender Antonio Ruediger celebrate after Fuellkrug scored the equalising goal during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group A football match between Switzerland and Germany at the Frankfurt Arena in Frankfurt am Main. Pic/AFP
A stoppage-time header from Niclas Fuellkrug has rescued a 1-1 draw for Germany against Switzerland on Sunday in Frankfurt, ensuring the Euro hosts finish top of Group A. The Swiss hit the lead early, Dan Ndoye booting in from close range after 28 minutes to stun the home side. Germany took a series of risks late in the hope of an equaliser and veteran striker Fuellkrug delivered, heading home in the second minute of stoppage time. The result means Switzerland, rather than Germany, face a tougher last 16 assignment, setting up a potential meeting with holders Italy or 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia.
The Germans look set to face second place in England`s Group C, which is currently Denmark. Heading into the match the hosts were optimistic they had turned the corner after almost a decade of disappointment at major tournaments, with two World Cup group stage exits bookending a Euros last 16 elimination. Led by an experienced midfield featuring captain Ilkay Gundogan and Toni Kroos, Germany beat both Scotland and Hungary in their first two Euros matches to give the hosts hope of a deep run in the tournament. The hosts were however caught off guard by Switzerland`s energy and failed to carve out many clear-cut chances against a dogged Swiss defence. Despite Fuellkrug`s late rescue effort, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann will have plenty to ponder after the stodgy performance. Despite having already qualified for the last 16, Nagelsmann decided to play the same starting XI for the third straight game.
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