Germany began the final stage of the 2026 Nations League in strong fashion, defeating Serbia 3-1 in a match played in heavy rain. Goals from Florian Wirtz and debutant Brajan Gruda assisted Jürgen Klopp’s team in keeping their ambitions of topping the group alive.
The game took place in an unusual atmosphere behind closed doors, with chosen groups of children under 15 allowed in together with teachers and football coaches. This setup came as a result of UEFA sanctions against Serbia for discrimination, yet the match still delivered ample entertainment.
Germany vs Serbia: Havertz and Wirtz give visitors control
Germany required only two minutes to go ahead. Kai Havertz met a corner, and though his attempt took a deflection, it was Serbia defender Srdan Babić who ended up turning the ball into his own net.
The visitors increased their lead in the 14th minute following an effective pressing sequence. Aleksandar Pavlović delivered an excellent through ball to Havertz, whose shot was stopped by Vanja Milinković-Savić. Wirtz was quickest to the loose ball and calmly lifted it into the net.
Germany kept dominating and ended the first half with 75% possession and a passing accuracy of 94%. Their control continued into the second period, with Gruda delivering a moment of individual brilliance in the 50th minute. The debutant finished an impressive solo run with a clinical strike to make it 3-0.
Serbia reduced the deficit six minutes later. Babić made up for his earlier own goal by scoring from the rebound after Marc-André ter Stegen had saved Stefan Gudelj’s header from a free kick.
The Nations League clash brings red cards and late chances
Joshua Kimmich almost restored Germany’s three-goal advantage with a powerful low shot from the edge of the penalty area. However, the goal was disallowed because Havertz was in a passive offside position.
Derry Scherhant, who had been among Germany’s standout performers under Klopp, came close to scoring in the 70th minute. After cutting inside from the left, he beat the goalkeeper with his shot but hit the woodwork. Serbia substitute Aleksandar Mitrović also posed a threat, but Ter Stegen kept his effort out.
The closing stages brought further difficulties for the hosts. Vanja Dragojevic was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Germany captain Kimmich, accidentally standing on his ankle. Substitute Andrija Zivković was also sent off after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession following an animated exchange with the referee.
Klopp brought on several more Bundesliga players, including Niclas Füllkrug, Felix Nmecha, and Said El Mala, but none made a significant impact during their limited time on the pitch. Germany will have another chance to use their squad when they face the Netherlands on Monday.
Florian Wirtz and Brajan Gruda headline Germany’s progress
The match also marked the first time Kimmich and Pavlović had started together as Germany’s double pivot. Their partnership showed encouraging signs and could become a regular feature under Klopp.
There was also symbolic meaning to the victory, as it was Germany’s final appearance in their long-standing partnership with Adidas. A convincing performance and a 3-1 result provided a fitting farewell.
With Wirtz and Gruda among the goals and Germany still in contention to top their Nations League group, the team can take plenty of encouragement from their performance in Serbia.