Jürgen Klopp's first match in charge of Germany ended in frustration after a stoppage-time equaliser from Cody Gakpo secured the Netherlands a 1-1 draw in a chaotic, unpredictable contest that also raised fresh injury concerns.
The German manager, who had suggested beforehand that a degree of unpredictability was acceptable so long as his side played with energy, certainly got the wild afternoon he anticipated. Felix Nmecha put Germany ahead in the first half, but Gakpo's stunning volley deep into added time, created by a superb cross from Ruben van Bommel, ensured a share of the spoils for Xavi on his own debut as the Netherlands' head coach.
Beyond the result, Klopp will be more concerned by fitness scares involving Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz, both of whom were forced off with apparent muscle problems. Musiala did not even make it to kickoff, withdrawing during the warm-up after feeling discomfort in his thigh and being replaced by Nadiem Amiri. Havertz lasted only until midway through the first half before he too went down and was substituted by Younes Ebnoutalib, who almost marked his introduction with a goal, forcing a save from Bart Verbruggen moments after coming on.
The fixture, once notorious for its tension, had a different atmosphere this time, with both camps more focused on new beginnings than old rivalries. Supporters in the stadium displayed a banner reading