Germany 0-1 Greece: Klopp Suffers First Defeat as Germany Struggle for Cutting Edge

Jürgen Klopp has suffered his first defeat as Germany head coach after Greece secured a 1-0 victory in Augsburg in the second round of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League.

Germany controlled most of the match and enjoyed around 75% possession, but struggled to turn their dominance into clear-cut chances. Greece remained compact and eventually found the decisive goal through Dimitrios Kourbelis in the 74th minute. 

The result comes after Germany opened Klopp’s reign with a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands. The former Liverpool manager is therefore still waiting for his first victory with the national team. 

Germany dominate possession but fail to score

Klopp made several changes to his starting XI for his first home match in charge, with Alexander Nübel replacing Marc-André ter Stegen in goal. Germany also had to cope without key attacking players including Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz. 

Despite spending long periods in control of the ball, Germany found it difficult to break through Greece’s defensive organisation.

Karim Adeyemi was among the most dangerous German players, testing goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis with several attempts. Tzolakis produced an important save from Adeyemi to keep Greece level. 

Kourbelis gives Greece the breakthrough

The decisive moment arrived in the 74th minute.

Dimitrios Kourbelis found space around the edge of the German penalty area and saw his effort take a deflection off Joshua Kimmich before finding its way past Nübel.

Germany attempted to respond, but Greece’s defensive structure remained difficult to penetrate. The visitors held on to claim all three points in Augsburg. 

Germany player performances

Alexander Nübel – 6/10
Had relatively little to do for much of the match and could do little about the deflected winning goal.

Yann Bisseck – 7/10
One of Germany’s more composed defenders. He was strong in duels and made an important late block.

Nathaniel Brown – 7/10
Provided an attacking option from the left and worked consistently, although his final delivery was not always accurate.

Josha Vagnoman – 7/10
Showed plenty of energy on the right and contributed to Germany’s early pressure.

Jonathan Tah – 6/10
Experienced a difficult night as Greece repeatedly looked for opportunities on the counterattack.

Joshua Kimmich – 7/10
Tried to control the tempo and organise Germany’s possession. Unfortunately for the captain, his attempted block played a part in the goal.

Felix Nmecha – 6/10
Kept possession reasonably well but struggled to provide enough penetration from midfield.

Karim Adeyemi – 7/10
One of Germany’s biggest attacking threats. His pace caused problems, but he could not turn his opportunities into a goal.

Kevin Schade – 7/10
Worked hard and helped connect Germany’s midfield with the attack, although Greece’s compact shape limited his influence.

Younes Ebnoutalib – 6/10
Found it difficult to operate against Greece’s packed defensive line and had limited opportunities in front of goal.

Bambasé Conté – 6/10
Saw plenty of the ball but struggled to find the space needed to unlock the Greek defence.

Klopp still searching for first win

The defeat gives Klopp plenty to consider as he continues to rebuild Germany following their disappointing World Cup campaign.

His team have shown signs of the intensity and pressing style associated with the coach, but the opening two Nations League matches have produced only one point. Germany’s next fixtures will provide Klopp with another opportunity to develop his ideas and improve the team’s attacking efficiency. 

For Greece, meanwhile, the victory moves them to the top of the group with a perfect record after two matches, while Germany remain on one point.