Serbia 1-3 Germany: Babic 56, Dragojevic 76; Babic 3 og, Wirtz 14, Gruda 50
Germany have given themselves a chance to finish top of Nations League Group A2 after a convincing victory over Serbia in Belgrade.
Jurgen Klopp’s side had struggled for consistency in his first five matches as head coach, but Friday’s result offered encouragement ahead of their final group fixture against the Netherlands in Berlin on Monday.
Germany are now level on eight points with Greece, who occupy second place because of their superior head-to-head record against the Germans. The Netherlands remain in contention for top spot, which means Monday’s meeting could prove decisive for Klopp’s side.
The visitors made a strong start despite the difficult conditions at the Rajko Mitic Stadium. Heavy rain fell throughout the match, which was played behind closed doors because of racist and discriminatory behaviour by Serbian supporters in September.
Germany took the lead through an unfortunate mistake from Srdjan Babic. The Serbia defender turned the ball into his own net to put the visitors ahead.
Florian Wirtz then doubled Germany’s advantage before half-time. The midfielder continued his impressive form with another goal for his country, leaving Serbia with a difficult task after the break.
Brajan Gruda made the result even more comfortable when he scored on his Germany debut. The youngster found the net to put Klopp’s side three goals ahead and give the visitors control of the contest.
Serbia managed to reduce the deficit through Babic, who found the net at the other end to make amends for his earlier mistake. However, the goal did little to change the outcome as Germany remained in control.
The closing stages brought further frustration for the hosts. Substitute Vanja Dragojevic was initially shown a yellow card for his challenge on Joshua Kimmich, but the decision was upgraded to a red after a review showed that he had stood on the Germany captain’s ankle.
Serbia were reduced to nine men when Andrija Zivkovic was also sent off for foul and abusive language. The two dismissals ended any hope of a late comeback.
Klopp was pleased with his team’s performance and believes Germany are beginning to show what they can achieve under his leadership.
“We played a truly fantastic game,” he told RTL. “Our counter-pressing was superb and the intensity was top-notch.”
The Germany coach also welcomed the chance to face the Netherlands with first place in the group at stake. His side will host their rivals in Berlin on Monday, while Greece welcome Serbia in the other fixture.
Germany need a positive result against the Dutch to keep their hopes of finishing top alive. After Friday’s performance, Klopp will have reason to believe his players can deliver another strong display.
