In a thrilling encounter at Euro 2024, Germany secured the top position in Group A after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Switzerland. The match, held on Sunday, saw a late equalizer from substitute Niclas Füllkrug deep into stoppage time, preserving Germany’s unbeaten run in the tournament.
The tension peaked in the final moments when Germany threw everything forward in search of a goal. Defender Nico Schlotterbeck and towering center-back Antonio Rüdiger joined the attack alongside Füllkrug. With two minutes into stoppage time, Füllkrug rose above the crowd to meet a cross from fellow substitute David Raum, directing the ball into the top corner past Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer.
“We risked a lot in this phase because we could have conceded a second goal,” Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann reflected. “He who doesn’t dare to risk doesn’t get to draw.”
Switzerland had taken the lead in the 28th minute through Dan Ndoye’s clever volley, and they looked poised to hand Germany their first defeat of the tournament. The Swiss team impressed with their defensive resilience and attacking threats, with captain Granit Xhaka named Man of the Match.
Despite already securing a place in the round of 16 before kickoff, Germany celebrated the draw as a victory, maintaining momentum from their previous wins against Scotland and Hungary. “When you see how the Germans celebrated their goal, that says everything,” Xhaka remarked.
The draw ensured Germany finished top of Group A, with Switzerland claiming second place. Hungary secured third after a stoppage-time 1-0 win over Scotland in Stuttgart.
Looking ahead, Germany will face the runner-up of Group C in the round of 16 on Saturday in Dortmund. Their potential opponents include England, Slovenia, Denmark, or Serbia, who are set to play their final group matches on Tuesday.
