The U18 national team drew 1-1 with Switzerland in a friendly in Grenchen. Substitute Nicklas Shipnoski scored a late equaliser in the 85th minute to snatch a draw for Guido Streichbier’s side.
The Germany youngsters took control of the match from the start and had the better chances. A header from Salih Özcan was tipped over the crossbar by Switzerland’s goalkeeper Leo Lecreux. He was needed shortly after as well to save a free-kick from Gorkem Saglam and the rebound from Dijon Ramaj.
Saglam and Ramaj miss, the Swiss take the lead
Switzerland troubled the German goal for the first time in the 30th minute when Jeremy Guillemenot was blocked following a corner. Shortly before half time, Saglam missed the opportunity to put Germany in front by an inch after good work from Ramaj.
The hosts were better after the break and had the first clear goalscoring opportunity in the 53rd minute, but Ramaj was put off at the decisive moment. Germany’s inability to create any chances almost cost them in the 60th minute as a free-kick from Meriton Kastrati almost found the bottom corner.
Shipnoski equalises
Özcan was close to leveling the scores in the 67th minute but the Köln midfielder’s shot missed the far corner of the visitors’ goal. The hosts continued to pile on the pressure and troubled the Swiss youngsters on the counter.
In the closing stages Germany were finally rewarded for their efforts as Shipnoski latched onto a through ball from Erik Engelhardt and put the ball over the onrushing Lecreux to equalise.