Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp and Barcelona legend Xavi Hernández shared points in their international managerial debuts as Germany and the Netherlands played out a 1-1 draw in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday.
The match marked the return of both high-profile managers to the dugout for the first time since departing their respective clubs in May 2024.
Felix Nmecha gave Germany the lead in the 32nd minute with a close-range finish, holding the 1-0 advantage well into stoppage time. However, Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo salvaged a dramatic draw for the Dutch side, converting a volley off a brilliant cross from debutant Ruben van Bommel in added time.
Despite the late drama, injury concerns stole the spotlight for both nations. Arsenal forward Kai Havertz was forced off in the first half following a knee collision with Quinten Timber, while Dutch striker Brian Brobbey—who recently scored a hat-trick for Sunderland against Manchester City—was substituted after sustaining a muscular injury.
The match also featured a historic family milestone as substitute Ruben van Bommel made his senior international debut for the Netherlands, becoming the third generation of his family to represent the national team following his father Mark van Bommel and grandfather Bert van Marwijk.