Germany were forced to settle for a goalless draw against Greece in Thessaloniki as Jurgen Klopp’s early spell in charge continued to produce inconsistent results in the UEFA Nations League.
After suffering a 1-0 defeat to the same opponents in Augsburg last week, Germany arrived hoping to respond with a stronger performance. Klopp adjusted his starting lineup with three changes and his team controlled much of the contest, recording more than 70% possession and attempting 21 shots.
Despite those numbers, finding the breakthrough proved difficult.
Greece created an early opening when Fotis Ioannidis directed a header towards goal in the second minute, forcing Jonas Urbig into an important save. Germany soon took command and spent long periods pushing the hosts back.
Jonathan Burkhardt appeared to have finally broken the deadlock during the opening half, only for VAR to intervene. The goal was ruled out after Tom Bischof was judged to have handled the ball earlier in the move.
Germany continued searching for an opener, with Lennart Karl and Derry Scherhant among those threatening the Greek defence. The home side also remained dangerous when opportunities appeared, as Konstantinos Mavropanos and Giorgos Masouras both tried to punish the visitors.
Neither team, however, could produce the decisive finish.
Captain Florian Wirtz admitted Germany were disappointed after generating sustained pressure without converting their opportunities, although he highlighted encouraging signs from a squad that has spent limited time working together under Klopp.
The result leaves the new coach with just one victory from his opening four matches.
Greece remain unbeaten and sit second in Group A2 with eight points, level with leaders the Netherlands. Germany are third, three points behind, leaving Klopp with plenty to improve before the Nations League campaign resumes.
