Germany Stunned as Northern Ireland Snatches Dramatic Late Equalizer After Gnabry’s Shock Opener

Germany’s rollercoaster of a World Cup qualifying campaign just hit another snag in Cologne, where Northern Ireland refused to back down in the first half. After taking a hit on the road against Slovakia—a loss that sent shockwaves through Die Mannschaft—Julian Nagelsmann sought fresh legs and fresh hope with five lineup tweaks, shuffling the defense and shaking things up. Early fireworks from Serge Gnabry had us thinking Germany might turn the tide quickly, but the pesky Northern Ireland press unsettled them, culminating in a jaw-dropping volley by Isaac Price that lit up the stadium and left fans buzzing. It’s getting harder by the minute to keep calm when the questions pile up as fast as the unconvincing halves. Stay tuned — this one’s far from over. LEARN MORE

Germany’s difficult start to World Cup qualifying continued as they were pegged back by Northern Ireland in the first half of their clash in Cologne.

Die Mannschaft lost an away World Cup qualifier for the first time this week as they were stunned 2-0 by Slovakia in Bratislava.

Julian Nagelsmann made five changes to a side heavily criticised in the wake of that defeat, including three alterations to the backline.

And Germany made an excellent start against a side they have lost to just twice in their history, Serge Gnabry lifting a dinked finish over Bailey Peacock-Farrell in the seventh minute after Nick Woltemade won the ball in midfield.

Germany continued to dominate possession thereafter but appeared uncomfortable against the Northern Ireland press, and the visitors levelled in style in the 34th minute.

Isaac Price met Jason Devenny’s corner with a sublime volley at the far post, sending the travelling fans into pandemonium and leaving Nagelsmann with more questions than answers after another unconvincing half from his side.