2026-2027 Nations League: Netherlands vs. Germany, Probable Lineups

The Netherlands and Germany face off at 8:45 p.m. in a match on the first day of the UEFA Nations League. The two teams are in Group 2 of League A alongside Greece and Serbia, and are the favorites to advance. Both national teams are coming off a disappointing World Cup (the Oranje were eliminated in the round of 16, just like the Germans), and both have new head coaches on the bench: Xavi and Jürgen Klopp.

The Spanish coach is fielding the Netherlands with a front three of Summerville, Brobbey, and Gakpo. Malen will not play, as he remained in Rome due to a minor injury. In midfield: Gravenberch, Veerman, and Reijnders; the two fullbacks will be Dumfries and Timber.

Klopp starts with Havertz as the center forward and a trio of attacking midfielders consisting of Musiala, Karl, and Gnabry. In the midfield, Amiri partners with Nmecha.

Netherlands vs. Germany: Probable Lineups
Netherlands (4-3-3): Verbruggen; Dumfries, van Dijk, van Hecke, Timber; Gravenberch, Veerman, Reijnders; Summerville, Brobbey, Gakpo. Coach: Xavi.
Germany (4-2-3-1): Nubel; Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Brown; Amiri, Nmecha; Musiala, Karl, Gnabry; Havertz. Coach: Klopp.

“The first lesson for our future together is learning to enjoy ourselves under pressure. When there’s pressure, you know that moment is truly important, and in that moment it’s easier to stay fully focused,” Klopp said at a press conference. “Quality shines through when there’s solidity behind it; that’s the springboard and the safety net. Focusing only on the attack is dangerous. I’ll walk through fire for the players. If they give their all, I’ll take responsibility for any losses—no ifs, ands, or buts.”