shot-button
Maharashtra Elections 2024 Maharashtra Elections 2024
Home > Sports News > Football News > Article > Last gasp Niclas Fuellkrug goal rescues top spot for Euro hosts Germany

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

Last-gasp Niclas Fuellkrug goal rescues top spot for Euro hosts Germany

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. 


It was a decision he may regret when defender Jonathan Tah saw yellow, his second in the group stage, meaning he will miss Germany's first knockout game. Pushed on by an optimistic and partisan home ground, Germany started brightly, carving out some half-chances after launching long balls over Switzerland's midfield press. Robert Andrich looked to have given Germany the lead after 16 minutes when Yann Sommer made a meal of his long-range strike, which bounced past the goalkeeper and into the net. The goal was however overturned with VAR finding Jamal Musiala had committed a foul in the lead-up.


 The Swiss had been on the back foot early but took the lead on the 28-minute mark, taking advantage of some sloppy play from Musiala and Joshua Kimmich. Musiala lost the ball in his own half, sending Switzerland on the break. Kimmich won but then let go of possession, allowing Remo Freuler to find Ndoye who stuck out a leg and booted the ball into the net. It was the first time the hosts have trailed this tournament and the goal seemed to rattle Germany, who were increasingly hesitant in closing out the first half. 

Germany went on the attack in the second half as Nagelsmann made several offensive changes but the hosts had few clear chances against a Swiss side doggedly protecting their lead. Man City defender Manuel Akanji stretched out to block Kimmich at point-black range with 20 minutes remaining. Nagelsmann brought Fuellkrug from the bench with 14 minutes remaining and the Borussia Dortmund striker stepped up to the plate, heading in a cross from David Raum to send Germany back to the top of the group. 

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Register for FREE
to continue reading !

This is not a paywall.
However, your registration helps us understand your preferences better and enables us to provide insightful and credible journalism for all our readers.

Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK