Germany’s spectacular run at the U21 EURO in Slovakia, spearheaded by VfB forward Nick Woltemade, came to a disappointing end on Saturday night with a 3-2 defeat against England after extra time.
Woltemade, whose six goals at the tournament played a huge role in the side reaching the showpiece in Bratislava, was once again in the starting line-up. He played the full 120 minutes of the decider and was lively throughout as the focal point of Germany’s attacks.
England took a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to goals from Harvey Elliot (5’) and Omari Hutchinson (24’), but Germany fought back to deservedly equalise after strikes from Nelson Weiper (45’+1) and Paul Nebel (61’).
However, England’s Jonathan Rowe headed in what proved to be the winning goal early on in extra time to secure a 3-2 victory for the Young Lions.
While Woltemade was unable to fulfil his dream of lifting the title, the 23-year-old at least has the consolation of finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.