Klopp ideas shape German side in Nations League debut vs Netherlands

In the stadium of Amsterdam, the DFB team showed traces of Klopp football in the Nations League debut against the Netherlands. Despite the short preparation time, coach Jürgen Klopp expressed satisfaction with his premiere, although the match ended in a 1-1 draw and the possession percentage was well below 40%.

Klopp satisfied with short preparation

Klopp was satisfied with his premiere, although the preparation time was tight. He said on Thursday evening that he has been a coach for a long time and that developing a team takes more than two days. The coach emphasized that one should believe him because he already knows the team.

In the first minutes of the duel in Amsterdam, the German back four pressed up to the midfield line to create compact spaces. The saying goes that Rome was not built in a day, and a city that is built in 15 hours was drawn by observers. This early defence already showed elements of Klopp football.

Analysis of missing gegenpressing and tactical basic order

Klopp criticised that his team had played too little football, especially during the opponent's strong phases. The data show that the possession percentage was below 40% and in the second half no shot was taken at the opponent's goal. He also missed the gegenpressing that he himself had introduced into the English language.

The coach employed a basic formation of 4‑1‑2‑3, similar to his time at FC Liverpool. Captain Joshua Kimmich acted as the number six in front of the back four, but won only one of seven duels. The lack of support in the half‑space was repeatedly exploited by the opponent.

Musiala and Havertz out – Klopp must reshuffle squad for Greece

Debutant Philipp Treu started as right full‑back and initially focused on defence. His restraint in attack was made more difficult by the role of the Dutch striker Cody Gakpo. Treu had to quickly adapt to the demands of international football.

Match progression, result and outlook

Musiala was already out of the squad due to injury, and Kai Havertz had to leave the field in the 30th minute after a duel with Quinten Timber. He was replaced by Younes Ebnoutalib. For the upcoming match against Greece, Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Burkardt will be used.

Van Dijk scored early, but the goal was cancelled by VAR. Shortly after, Felix Nmecha put Germany ahead, only for Cody Gakpo to equalise in stoppage time to make it 1-1. The final result was a draw that left the Germans in the Nations League without a win.

Germany suffers double loss of Musiala and Havertz in the Nations League

Despite the point, Klopp showed satisfaction with the displayed ideas and emphasised that the team could play more beautifully and spectacularly. The next duel takes place on Sunday in Augsburg against Greece and will be broadcast live on 27.09.2026 in the Sportschau on Das Erste. Klopp sees this as an opportunity to further develop the positive impulses.