Niclas Fullkrug scored a stoppage-time equalizer as hosts Germany rescued a point in a 1-1 draw with Switzerland on Sunday, sealing top spot in Group A and maintaining momentum heading into the round of 16 at UEFA Euro 2024. Swiss forward Dan Ndoye had threatened to spoil the party with a first-half opener, but Germany, already assured of a round-of-16 place before kickoff, extended their unbeaten run to seven games, dating back to November.
Germany topped Group A with seven points from three games, two ahead of Switzerland. Hungary, with three points, must wait to see if they advance as one of the best third-placed teams after a 1-0 win over Scotland, who are eliminated. Germany will face the second-place team in Group C in Dortmund on Saturday, with potential opponents including England, Denmark, Slovenia, and Serbia. Switzerland will play the second-place team in Group B on the same day in Berlin, with Italy, Albania, and Croatia as possible challengers.
Disallowed Goals and Frustrations
The home side experienced a challenging evening with a disallowed goal and several penalty appeals rejected by Italian referee Daniele Orsato. Kai Havertz’s early header was saved by the Swiss keeper, and a potential penalty was dismissed after he was bundled over in the box. Germany thought they had the lead when Robert Andrich’s 30-yard shot beat Switzerland goalkeeper Yann Sommer, but it was ruled out for a foul by Jamal Musiala.
Swiss Threat and German Persistence
Switzerland took the lead just before the half-hour mark when Musiala was dispossessed in midfield, allowing Remo Freuler to deliver a low cross that Dan Ndoye turned into the net. Despite Germany’s dominance and numerous attempts, including Ilkay Gündogan’s mishit shot and Toni Kroos’s effort from distance, they struggled to break through.
Fullkrug’s Dramatic Equalizer
Germany’s persistence paid off in the 92nd minute. Niclas Füllkrug, coming off the bench, rose highest to head in David Raum’s cross, preserving Germany’s unbeaten start to their home championship. This equalizer denied Switzerland what would have been only their second win over Germany in 22 competitive matches since 1959.
Germany had 1.70 expected goals compared to Switzerland’s 0.60, clocking 18 attempts with three on target. Switzerland managed four shots, with three on target, and Germany recorded 37 touches in the opposition box.
Niclas Fullkrug set a record by scoring as a substitute for the fourth time in major tournaments for Germany. This goal marked the first time since the 2006 World Cup that Germany scored eight goals in the group stage of a major tournament. At 23 years and 242 days, Dan Ndoye became Switzerland’s second-youngest goalscorer in European Championship history.
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