Germany embarrassed at home by North Macedonia in World Cup qualifier

Germany 1 North Macedonia 2 Germany suffered a shock result in their World Cup Group J qualifier as North Macedonia scored an 85th-minute winner through Eljif Elmas, sparking scenes of mass celebration for the Balkan country. Elmas slotted in after the four-times world champions had controlled the game but struggled to convert chances against the disciplined North Macedonians, ranked 65th in the world. It was Germany's first home World Cup qualifying loss in 20 years in coach Joachim Loew's last qualifying game in charge ahead of his departure following this summer's European Championship. Despite Germany's 70% 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. The Germans had their opponents boxed in their own half but apart from a Serge Gnabry effort had little to show for it until Leroy Sane was brought down in the box. Gundogan's 63rd-minute 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. They were lucky not to concede a penalty for an Emre Can handball but were still punished for not making their dominance count when Elmas found space in the box to turn in a cutback for the winner. The goal lifted North Macedonia to six points in second place, ahead on goal difference from Germany in Group J and three behind leaders Armenia. How famous night unfolded

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