Germany vs Netherlands

 [Storyline] Germany vs Netherlands

Injury-Stricken Germany Faces Netherlands in Key UEFA Nations League Showdown at Allianz Arena

Fresh off a 2-1 victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina, an injury-riddled Germany aims to continue their strong start in the UEFA Nations League as they host the Netherlands at the Allianz Arena on Monday. Julian Nagelsmann's side, boosted by a Deniz Undav brace, now sits on seven points from three matches, two ahead of the Dutch, who are currently second in Group A3.

The Netherlands, however, will come into the match looking to rebound after a 1-1 draw with Hungary, salvaged by Denzel Dumfries' late equalizer following Virgil van Dijk's red card. Van Dijk's suspension means he will miss Monday's clash, adding to the Netherlands' challenges.

Just over a month ago, the two teams faced off in Amsterdam, ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw. Tijuani Reijnders' early goal gave the Dutch a strong start, but Germany responded with goals from Undav and Joshua Kimmich before Dumfries levelled the score.

For this match, Oliver Baumann will start in goal for Germany, replacing Alexander Nübel, while Angelo Stiller and Aleksandar Pavlovic are set to pair up in central midfield. Nagelsmann confirmed these changes at the pre-match press conference.

Germany’s injury woes continue, with Chris Führich the latest player to withdraw due to an adductor issue, joining a lengthy list of absentees, including Füllkrug, Havertz, Henrichs, Koch, Musiala, Raum, and Ter Stegen. On the Dutch side, in addition to van Dijk, they will also be without Aké and Schouten due to injuries.

As Nagelsmann enters his second year as Germany's coach, he faces the challenge of leading his team through a significant injury crisis, reminiscent of his previous tenure at Bayern Munich. Despite the setbacks, there is a glimmer of hope with Aleksandar Pavlović returning to training, and Nagelsmann is optimistic about the youngster's potential impact on Monday’s game.