Four-time world champions Germany were handed their first World Cup qualifying loss in 20 years after North Macedonia defeated them 2-1 on Wednesday in Duisburg.
Macedonia’s Goran Pandev scored the opener in the first-half stoppage time before Germany levelled with a penalty from Ilkay Gundogan in the 63rd minute.
However, Napoli midfielder Eljif Elmas’ goal in the 85th minute left Germany stunned, pushing the 2014 champions to the third place in Group J.
The defeat was just the latest setback suffered by Germany, after their embarrassing 6-0 drubbing by Spain last November and the shock group-stage exit at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
“The disappointment is huge,” coach Joachim Loew said after the match as pressure builds on him. Germany are just three points above Armenia in the group.
“We had a good basis after the first two games (wins over Iceland and Romania),” added Loew. “The goal was nine points and the fact that we gave that away is our own fault.”
Loew is expected to step down after Euro 2020 in July this year after 15 years in charge.
“It shouldn’t have been allowed to happen,” stand-in captain Gundogan said.
“It felt as though North Macedonia only got near our goal twice and scored twice—it was too easy. We had chances and only scored one goal.”
North Macedonia are ranked 65th in the world and have never played at a World Cup, but will make their tournament debut at the European Championship this year.
Before kick-off, the Germans revealed a banner with the words “Wir sind 30” (We are 30), in black-red-gold lettering, referring to the United Nations’ 30-point declaration of Human Rights.
This was the third match in a row where Germany have made a protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar.
Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for next year’s tournament.
(With inputs from agencies)