UEFA nations league: Germany , Italy, France secure contrasting wins as Belgium, Netherlands lose

 


Germany secured their spot in the Nations League quarter-finals on Monday with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Netherlands in Group A3, thanks to Jamie Leweling's goal on his international debut.


Leweling, one of two debutants for Germany, had an early goal disallowed for offside in the second minute but found the back of the net in the 64th minute. His decisive shot came after the Dutch failed to properly clear a corner, allowing him to fire the ball into the top corner.


Germany now lead the group with 10 points from four matches, ensuring their place in the last eight. The Netherlands trail by five points in second, with Hungary behind on goal difference. Bosnia sit at the bottom with just one point after a 2-0 defeat to Hungary.


Germany controlled much of the game, putting pressure on the Dutch from the outset. Aside from Leweling’s winner, Tim Kleindienst and Maximilian Mittelstaedt both had opportunities to score, while the Netherlands, led by Ronald Koeman, struggled to gain a foothold.


After halftime, Germany continued to press, with Serge Gnabry coming close in the 54th minute before Leweling sealed the victory. The Dutch remained subdued for much of the match.


Meanwhile, France's coach Didier Deschamps praised Randal Kolo Muani after his two goals secured a 2-1 win over Belgium in Group A2. Kolo Muani scored a penalty and a header to push France closer to the quarter-finals. Despite being reduced to 10 men after Aurelien Tchouameni's second booking, France held off Belgium, who had missed an earlier penalty through Youri Tielemans.


In another match, Italy dominated Israel in a 4-1 win, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo scoring twice. Italy now lead Group A2 with 10 points, ahead of France by one. Mateo Retegui opened the scoring with a penalty, followed by Di Lorenzo's header from a Giacomo Raspadori free kick. Though Israel briefly pulled one back through Mohammed Abu Fani, Italy quickly responded, with Davide Frattesi and Di Lorenzo sealing the victory.


Italy controlled possession throughout the match, but Israel had an early chance through Oscar Gloukh. Despite their efforts, Italy's attack proved too strong, ensuring they remain in control of their group.


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