Germany overcome Resurgent Northern Ireland in hannover
HANNOVER, Germany – A late surge from Germany saw them defeat Northern Ireland 3-1 at HDI-Arena on Saturday, September 7, 2025, in a Euro 2028 qualifying match. Despite a spirited performance adn a stunning equalizer from Conor Price, Northern Ireland ultimately succumbed to goals from Nadiem Amiri and Florian Wirtz, halting their impressive run of form.
The result leaves Northern Ireland facing an uphill battle in their qualifying campaign,while Germany solidify their position as group favorites. The match showcased Northern Ireland’s growing resilience under manager Michael O’Neill, but also highlighted the gulf in quality against a side boasting world-class talent. The defeat underscores the challenges facing smaller nations competing against footballing powerhouses, and the importance of capitalizing on opportunities when they arise.
Northern ireland started brightly, creating early chances from Devenny’s corners. Paddy McNair headed over the bar before a second corner led to the opening goal. In the 22nd minute, Price met a Devenny corner with a superb volley at the far post, leveling the scores and netting his eighth goal in his last nine appearances, and 10th overall for Northern Ireland at the age of just 21.
Germany struggled to respond, appearing nervous against Northern Ireland’s energetic display, and where met with whistles from the frustrated home support at halftime. Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann was forced to flap at another Devenny corner early in the second half, and it took the hosts ten minutes to gain control, with Jamie Leweling firing wide.
Northern Ireland goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell was instrumental in keeping the score level, producing a double save to deny David Raum and Pascal Gross in quick succession. Trai Hume blocked a powerful strike from Joshua Kimmich, and Peacock-Farrell adjusted smartly to save Wirtz’s effort on the line. Peacock-Farrell’s performance marked his 50th cap for Northern Ireland, making him only the third goalkeeper to reach that milestone for his country.Tho, Germany’s pressure eventually told. In the 69th minute, a defensive mix-up between Peacock-Farrell and Toal allowed Amiri to tap into an empty net after Raum’s forward pass. Four minutes later, Wirtz sealed the victory with an excellent free-kick, putting the game beyond Northern Ireland’s reach.The match featured appearances from several players including Waldemar Anton,Maximilian Beier,and Nadiem Amiri for Germany,and Conor Price,Paddy McNair,and Trai Hume for Northern Ireland.
