North Macedonia Shock Germany At Home In A World Cup Qualifiers

 

North Macedonia scored an 85th-minute winner through Eljif Elmas to stun Germany 2-1 in their World Cup Qualifier on Wednesday, celebrating their greatest international victory.

Elmas slotted in after the four-time world champions had controlled the game but struggled to create chances against the disciplined North Macedonians, ranked 65th in the world.

It was Germany's first home World Cup Qualifying loss in 20 years, since being beaten 5-1 by England, and coach Joachim Lowe's last qualifying game in charge ahead of his departure following this summer's European Championship.

Despite Germany's 70 per cent possession in the first half and Leon Goretzka's shot onto the crossbar, it was the visitors who scored when 37-year-old Goran Pandev was left unmarked in the box to tap home in first-half stoppage time.

A 63rd-minute Ilkay Gundogan penalty drew the hosts level but despite late pressure and a golden chance for Timo Werner 10 minutes from time, Germany could not find a winner.

North Macedonia celebrate after their winning goal against Germany

Instead, it was Elmas who scored to lift North Macedonia to six points, level with Germany in Group J and three behind leaders Armenia.

Elsewhere, after trailing 2-1 in the 87th minute, Armenia scored twice to beat 10-man Romania 3-2 for their third straight win in World Cup Qualifying. Iceland also beat Liechtenstein 4-1 to end a seven-game losing run