Dutch gold relegates Germany

GERMANY were relegated from Group A1 of the Nations League after Holland earned a surprise 2-0 win over France. Goals from Georginio Wijnaldum and Memphis Depay crowned a dominant display from the Dutch in Rotterdam to end Les Bleus’ 15game unbeaten run. Friday’s result leaves Joachim Low’s winless German side rooted to the bottom of the table and heading to League B. Holland will have the chance to qualify for the finals of the competition ahead of world champions France when they complete the group stage against the Germans in Gelsenkirchen on Monday. Victory in that match would see Ronald Koeman’s men top the group, while a draw would also be sufficient because of their superior goal difference. The Dutch fully merited their narrow victory at De Kuip and below-par France, without the injured Paul Pogba, would have lost by more had it not been for goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. Star man Wijnaldum fired home the 44th-minute opener, before Depay dinked in a penalty deep into added time. Holland, who failed to qualify for the last two major tournaments, have been rejuvenated under former Southampton and Everton coach Koeman. Led by captain Virgil van Dijk, the Dutch defended resolutely and never looked like surrendering their lead as they beat France for the first time since Euro 2008. After Wijnaldum reacted quickest to fire home an emphatic rebound for his 10th international goal, Koeman’s side eventually made the points safe in the fifth minute of added time. Depay cheekily chipped in from the spot after France substitute Moussa Sissoko brought down Frenkie De Jong in the box.