Turkey Derails Germany’s Comeback in Nagelsmann’s First Home Game with 3-2 Upset

Germany’s recent resurgence came to an end in the inaugural home game of new coach Julian Nagelsmann on Saturday, as they suffered a 3-2 defeat to Turkey in a friendly international.

Kai Havertz provided an ideal start for Germany by scoring in the fifth minute, but Turkey reversed the tide before halftime with goals from Ferdi Kadioglu in the 37th minute and teenager Kenan Yildiz in stoppage time.

Germany managed to level the score in the 49th minute through Niclas Füllkrug, but a contentious penalty converted by Yusuf Sari secured a 71st-minute victory for Turkey at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, where Turkish fans outnumbered their German counterparts.

This marked Germany’s first loss since the dismissal of Hansi Flick in September. After a successful run under caretaker Rudi Völler, including a 2-1 victory over France, Nagelsmann began his tenure with a 3-1 win against the United States and a 2-2 draw against Mexico.

The defeat occurred just three days before Germany’s last game of the year on Tuesday against Austria in Vienna. It underscores the considerable work Nagelsmann has ahead of him in shaping a competitive team for the Euro 2024 home tournament, particularly in the realm of defense.

Meanwhile, Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella extended his winning streak to three out of three games, despite some stars being injured or rested ahead of their final Euro qualifier in Wales. The already qualified team has the opportunity to secure first place in their group.