Kourbelis Fires Greece Past Germany to Stay Top of Nations League Group A

Dimitris Kourbelis came off the bench to give Greece a landmark 1-0 UEFA Nations League win over Germany at the WWK Arena, scoring the decisive goal in the 74th minute as Ivan Jovanovic’s side remained top of Group A.

Key takeaways

• Kourbelis entered the match in the 56th minute and struck with his left foot 18 minutes later.
• His effort took a deflection before beating Germany goalkeeper Alexander Nübel into the corner.
• The result was Greece’s first victory against Germany away from home.
• About 6,000 Greek supporters travelled to the WWK Arena and celebrated the winner with the midfielder.
• Greece have collected six points from their opening two away fixtures in the group.

Kourbelis hails Greece’s resilience

The 32-year-old midfielder described the result as a significant statement against one of international football’s leading nations. Greece had to withstand prolonged German pressure, with Kourbelis crediting the collective defensive work and physical commitment of his team-mates.

He said the team had been prepared to suffer in order to take a result of this scale, adding that Greece have shown they belong in major matches and have the potential to compete at a major tournament.

Kourbelis also praised Jovanovic for building a firm mentality within the squad. While pleased with the perfect start, he stressed that Greece must remain grounded with demanding games still to come, including a return meeting with Germany and two fixtures against the Netherlands.

Netherlands fixture next for Group A leaders

Greece will leave Germany and turn immediately towards Thursday’s Nations League match against the Netherlands in Thessaloniki. Jovanovic’s team will seek another result that would strengthen their position at the summit of Group A, with Kourbelis hoping to make another important contribution in midfield.

Germany, meanwhile, will attempt to respond to the defeat when they host Serbia in Munich on the same evening.