The Netherlands found their answer at the very end, dragging Germany back within reach of a 1-1 draw on Thursday night after a contest that swung like a bout fought round by round.
Germany had led since the 32nd minute through Nmecha, but the Dutch carried more threat across the match and finally made their pressure count in added time.
Quick facts
- Netherlands drew 1-1 with Germany on Thursday.
- Nmecha put Germany ahead in the 32nd minute.
- Ruben van Bommel, 22, came on in the 83rd minute for his first Netherlands cap.
- Van Bommel scored the late equaliser.
- The Dutch recorded more possession, chances, corners and won more duels.
The numbers pointed towards a Dutch edge for much of the evening. They had more of the ball, created the greater volume of opportunities and won more set-piece situations, yet Germany held their lead deep into the closing stages.
Ruben van Bommel changed the ending. The 22-year-old, making his senior international debut, was introduced in the 83rd minute and delivered the decisive intervention in stoppage time.
It was an immediate landmark moment for the son of Mark van Bommel, the former midfielder now in charge of Belgium. His late finish ensured the Netherlands had something to show for their sustained effort against their old rivals.
