Germany take charge in Belgrade before crucial Netherlands Nations League clash

Germany strengthened their position in the Nations League with a 3-1 victory over Serbia in Belgrade on Friday, setting up a decisive final group match against the Netherlands.

The visitors made the perfect start at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, taking the lead after only three minutes when Serbia defender Srđan Babic turned the ball into his own net.

Germany doubled their advantage in the 14th minute. Kai Havertz’s effort was saved, but Florian Wirtz reacted quickly to convert the rebound and put the away side firmly in control.

Brian Gruda added a third five minutes after half-time, increasing the pressure on Serbia and putting Germany on course for a comfortable win.

Babic reduced the deficit in the 56th minute, making amends for his earlier own goal by scoring Serbia’s only goal of the match. However, the hosts’ hopes of mounting a comeback were badly damaged by two late red cards.

Vanja Dragojevic was sent off in the 77th minute after a dangerous challenge on Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich. Andrija Zivkovic followed him down the tunnel in the 89th minute after receiving a second yellow card for dissent following a foul.

Serbia therefore finished the match with nine players, while Germany continued to push for a fourth goal in the closing stages. The visitors created further opportunities but were unable to add to their total.

The result moves Germany up to eight points in third place in Group 2 of League A. They remain behind Greece on head-to-head record, with Greece in second, while the Netherlands lead the group on 11 points. Serbia are fourth with no points.

Germany now face the Netherlands on Monday in the final round of the Nations League group stage. The Mannschaft must win to maintain their hopes of progressing, while Greece will meet Serbia in the group’s other fixture.