FRANKFURT, GERMANY - Germany secured a dramatic stoppage-time goal from substitute Niclas Fullkrug to draw 1-1 with Switzerland on Sunday, ensuring the host nation finished top of its group. Fullkrug soared above a crowded penalty area to head the ball into the far corner past Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer, following a precise cross from another substitute, David Raum.
Switzerland had impressed by holding onto a 28th-minute lead from Dan Ndoye's clever volleyed shot.
The draw ensured Germany finished first and Switzerland second in Group A. Hungary claimed third place with an even later stoppage-time goal to beat Scotland 1-0 in Stuttgart.
Germany now heads to Dortmund for a round of 16 game on Saturday against the runner-up in Group C, which is currently led by England. Based on the current standings before the final Group C games on Tuesday, Germany's opponent would be Denmark.
Switzerland will play at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, opening the round of 16 on Saturday against the runner-up in Group B, likely either Italy or Croatia, who face off in their decisive group game on Monday.
Switzerland's goal showcased a strong connection from Bologna, the rising Italian club qualifying for its first Champions League entry next season. Ndoye timed his run perfectly to meet a floated pass from his Bologna teammate Remo Freuler. The attack started when Fabian Rieder, making his first start since the 2022 World Cup, won the ball in the German half and fed Freuler.
Earlier, a video review denied Germany the lead in the 17th minute. Robert Andrich's long-range shot bounced over Sommer, but the VAR team alerted Italian referee Daniele Orsato to an earlier foul in the goalmouth by Jamal Musiala.
The much-criticized Waldstadion playing surface behaved better on Sunday, with the roof remaining closed to protect it, although no more rain is forecast for at least five days. The turf had cut up during the previous Euro 2024 games in Frankfurt, having not bedded in properly since being laid in November after the stadium hosted two NFL games.
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