Netherlands 2-1 Germany, Koel Stadium
(Green 16 ‘, van de Donk 60’ – Freigang 44 ‘)
In the final bout of this mini tournament, Germany finally had to pay for their inaccuracy at both ends of the pitch.
“We just had to score goals. I felt like pulling my hair out today,” said Voss-Tecklenburg afterwards.
After both sides managed to beat Belgium – third country in a series of friendlies between three countries to bid to host the 2027 World Cup – the stage has been set for the most anticipated match.
Without the help of talismanic center-back Marina Hegering (muscle problem), Germany’s cohesiveness is suffering as a defender four with three new faces struggling to gel.
The Dutch offensive was in stark contrast. Voss-Tecklenburg had warned in advance of the Netherlands’ established rhythm, and the evidence came in the form of Jackie Groenen’s opener. Vivianne Miedema charged deep into the box to collect the through ball, before finding her unsigned teammate was instinctively out of sight.
While the hosts celebrated Groenen’s well-scored first goal, their guests gawked at one another, waved and exchanged glances on who was at fault.
Level, but not for long
The Netherlands may be the favorites, but this German team is no stranger to itself. Experience and form keep them back in the game. Svenja Huth perfectly chose the way of Laura Freigang, who scored her fifth international goal in her fourth international appearance.
The equalizer arrived halfway through the game, and it cheered up the guests, who carried their momentum into the second half. But then it was the home team’s turn to take a surprise blow.
German right-back Sophia Kleinherne bet on possession in the center line and lost, inviting a cruel Dutch attack. Merle Frohms did her best, deflecting Jill Roord’s shot across the bar, but Danielle van de Donk stopped the rebound.
No reply from the Germans, who were in vain to progress, failed once again to make their pressure count. Klara Bühl had some clear chances to level up his team, but the score remained unchanged.
“[Klara Bühl] also had a game where he had two chances and scored two goals, “said Voss-Tecklenburg afterwards.” I’m sure there will be matches in the future where he will find the net again, rather than just hitting the goalkeeper or blasting. It is over.”
Germany may get away with poor composure in front of goal against Belgium, but it will always be a different story against the Netherlands. Their inability to equalize the scores saw them suffer their first defeat since the 2019 World Cup.
In the Netherlands, Germany finally met the world-class opponent they had longed for. This was a genuine test that their newest equipment couldn’t provide, and based on the score line, it wasn’t a test they passed. The question is whether the Voss-Tecklenburg team can learn the lessons necessary to have a serious chance of competing for future titles.