UEFA Nations League round-up: France frustrate Germany

Goalkeeper Alphonse Areola enjoyed a fantastic debut as World Cup winners France drew 0-0 with Germany in their UEFA Nations League Group A1 opener on Thursday.

The Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper denied Marco Reus, Mats Hummels and Thomas Muller in the second half before brilliantly saving from Matthias Ginter.

France failed to create a clear opening, with Antoine Griezmann having their best effort in the 64th minute when his 25-yard shot was saved by Manuel Neuer.

Player ratings

Germany: Neuer (6), Rudiger (6), Boateng (6), Hummels (6), Kimmich (6), Ginter (6), Goretzka (5), Kroos (6), Reus (6), Werner (6), Muller (5)

Subs: Gundogan (5), Sane (5)

France: Areola (8), Pavard (6), Varane (5), Umtiti (6), Hernandez (6), Pogba (6), Kante (5), Mbappe (7), Griezmann (5), Matuidi (5), Giorud (5)

Subs: Tolisso (5), Fekir (5)

Man of the match: Alphonse Areola

But the visitors managed to hold out to frustrate Germany, who should still be encouraged by elements of their performance after a disappointing summer when they were knocked out in the group stages of the World Cup.

France stuck with the same outfield players that played in the World Cup final while Germany made four changes, with Arsenal's Mesut Ozil missing after retiring from international duty and Manchester City's Leroy Sane on the bench