Klopp's Germany Debut: A Turbulent Start as Dutch Dominate in Derby

Jürgen Klopp's first game as Germany's head coach was a wild affair. While Klopp's sideline energy was notable, the international press largely viewed the Netherlands as the stronger team in the Amsterdam 'boxing match' that ended in a draw.

ENGLAND

The Guardian: Gakpo denied Klopp a perfect start. Jürgen Klopp had predicted his debut as Germany's national coach would be turbulent, a trait he'd accept if his team played with vigor. He got both in a strange, disjointed match that swung back and forth, ending with a dramatic equalizer from the Netherlands and growing injury concerns.

The Telegraph: He spoke of dwindling energy in January 2024. It seems his batteries are recharged. Klopp put on a one-man show in Amsterdam, launching his bid to make Germany a feared football nation again—a passionate, cheering, arm-waving, demanding figure.

FRANCE

L'Équipe: It was an entertaining match, much like a boxing contest. Two opponents traded blows, each had their rounds, their moments of weakness, and at times, they were on the ropes. If judged on points, the Netherlands would have won.

Le Figaro: The Netherlands frustrate Jürgen Klopp's Germany.

ITALY

Corriere dello Sport: The new era for both national teams begins with a point each.

NETHERLANDS

AD: For a long time, a loss seemed inevitable for the new national coach Xavi Hernández, but in stoppage time, Cody Gakpo scored a well-deserved equalizer against Germany. An energetic Oranje got what they deserved.

De Telegraaf: Xavi's era at Oranje has begun with a highly deserved draw against Germany.

AUSTRIA

Kronen-Zeitung: Draw! Dutch spoil Klopp's DFB party.

SWITZERLAND

Blick: The era of a savior has begun with a lucky draw in a wild derby. Jürgen Klopp is on Germany's sideline for the first time and sees his team get a lot of luck—and then let the win slip away in the final phase.

SPAIN

AS: Klopp survives Xavi. A draw between the Netherlands and Germany in a match where the team coached by Xavi deserved more, but only managed to beat ter Stegen in stoppage time.

Marca: Gakpo beats ter Stegen's defense in the 92nd minute, sweetening Xavi's debut against Klopp.

Sport: Xavi Hernández's debut as the Netherlands' national coach was only missing a win. The hosts dominated the game, performed excellently in front of their home crowd, and overcame ter Stegen's saves, VAR, and a controversial Nmecha goal to secure a point in stoppage time with a goal from Gakpo.