Jovanovic celebrates Greece's historic triumph over Germany
Greece have beaten Germany in Augsburg for the first time, a 1-0 win that creates a historic surprise. Coach Ivan Jovanovic praised after the victory especially the fighting performance of his team and emphasized that the result marks a perfect start to the Nations League.
First historic win
Coach Jovanovic said after the 1-0 in Augsburg that he was especially proud and highlighted above all the attitude of his players. He stressed that the team, despite the low possession, had delivered the necessary performance and thereby secured a perfect start to the Nations League.
Germany had more possession for long periods and put pressure on the Greek defence in the first half. The visitors, however, held firm and after the break got better into the game. Dimitrios Kourbelis scored the decisive goal in the 74th minute.
"To win such games, you have to suffer," explained Coach Jovanovic after the match. He added: "My players gave everything on the pitch." The Greek national coach emphasized that his team knew what to expect in Augsburg.
Significance and outlook
Jovanovic did not hide the initial weaknesses, especially with the ball. After the break the team became more active and eventually rewarded the effort. The win is a special moment in the history of Greek football, after several unsuccessful duels against Germany.
After two matchdays, six points are already on the Nations League tally. "It was a very important win against a strong opponent and a historic victory for the Greek national team here in Germany," Jovanovic told UEFA, underscoring the importance of the perfect start for the group situation.
However, there is not much time left for celebration. Greece face the Netherlands on Thursday, before Germany awaits again.