Germany Edges Closer to Nations League Quarter-Finals with Win Over Serbia
Germany secured a vital win against Serbia on Friday night, thanks in large part to Kai Havertz‘s contribution, giving the team a crucial opportunity to advance to the Nations League quarter-finals.
With Germany trailing the top two teams by three points before the match, the stakes were high; a defeat could have jeopardized their chances of finishing in the top two and moving forward in the tournament.
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Germany benefitted from the Netherlands’ impressive 7-0 victory over Greece, opening the door for Germany, where Havertz stepped up to help his team capitalize.
In the match, Havertz initially believed he had opened the scoring in the third minute, with a header from a corner. However, due to a significant deflection, the goal was credited as an own goal by Srdan Babic. Nevertheless, Germany held the lead.
Germany extended their advantage in the 14th minute, largely due to Havertz’s play. His run past the defense allowed him a shot on goal, which Vanja Milinkovic-Savic saved, but Florian Wirtz managed to capitalize on the rebound to score.
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Germany secured a 3-1 victory. Although Havertz did not officially record a goal or assist, his influence was clear to viewers. Highlights from the match are available here.
Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images
With this win, Germany now controls its fate. A victory against the Netherlands in their final match assures them a place in the knockout stages, possibly as group leaders.
However, a draw would leave Germany needing Greece to lose to Serbia for progression. A loss would eliminate them from advancement.
With important matches ahead, Havertz was substituted with 16 minutes remaining, as Germany will need his skills once again on Monday.
Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
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Arsenal 27yo helps keep Germany’s Nations League campaign aliveKai Havertz had a major impact in a Germany win over Serbia on Friday night, giving his country a shot at making the Nations League quarter-finals. Trailing the top-two by three points ahead of Friday’s game, Germany knew they couldn’t afford to slip up away to Serbia. If results went against them, they might have…
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