Afghan-origin midfielder Nadiem Amiri played 80 minutes for Germany as Cody Gakpo’s stoppage-time equaliser earned the Netherlands a 1–1 draw in their UEFA Nations League opener in Amsterdam on Thursday.
Amiri was a late addition to Germany’s starting lineup after Jamal Musiala suffered a thigh problem during the warm-up. The Mainz midfielder took his place in Jürgen Klopp’s first match as Germany head coach at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
Germany went ahead in the 32nd minute when Felix Nmecha scored from close range. The goal sparked protests from the Dutch players, who were unhappy that Germany had continued attacking while Netherlands forward Brian Brobbey was down injured.
The referee allowed the goal to stand, and Germany carried their narrow advantage into half-time.
Amiri operated in an advanced midfield role and helped create one of Germany’s first-half opportunities. His pass released Nathaniel Brown, who subsequently set up Karim Adeyemi, but the forward failed to convert.
The Netherlands applied greater pressure after the interval. Germany goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen made several important saves as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.
Amiri left the field in the 80th minute, with Germany still leading.
The hosts finally broke through in the second minute of stoppage time. Substitute Ruben van Bommel delivered a cross that Gakpo met with a volley to secure a point for the Netherlands.
The draw marked the beginning of Klopp’s tenure with Germany, while Xavi Hernández also made his debut as Netherlands head coach.
For Amiri, whose family roots are in Afghanistan, the match brought another appearance at international level.
