Date: 5 June 2025

Venue: Stuttgart Arena, Germany

Final Score: Spain 5–4 France

In one of the most electrifying matches in UEFA Nations League history, Spain edged France 5–4 in Stuttgart to book a place in Sunday’s final against Portugal.

The clash was a goal-laden spectacle that saw Spain’s youthful flair rise above France’s late resurgence in a truly unforgettable semifinal.

First-Half Masterclass by La Roja

Spain burst out of the blocks, racing to a 4–0 lead within the first 35 minutes. Winger Nico Williams opened the scoring with a well-placed finish before Mikel Merino doubled the lead.

The standout performer, Lamine Yamal, dazzled with two quick goals—showcasing his composure and attacking maturity at just 17 years old.

France looked stunned and struggled to contain Spain’s high press and intricate passing play, heading into the break 4–1 down, having pulled one back through a Kylian Mbappé penalty.

France’s Furious Comeback Falls Short

Spain extended their lead to 5–1 early in the second half, thanks to a well-taken strike by Pedri. But France refused to surrender.

Goals from Rayan Cherki, a Dani Vivian own goal, and a stoppage-time header by Randal Kolo Muani sparked hope of an improbable comeback.

Despite their spirited surge, the clock ran out on Les Bleus as Spain held on to seal their place in the final.

Unai Simón’s Crucial Interventions

While Spain’s attack stole the spotlight, goalkeeper Unai Simón played a key role in preserving the win. His crucial stops, particularly late in the second half, were instrumental in staving off France’s rally.

Man of the Match: Lamine Yamal (Spain)

The 17-year-old Barcelona forward was named Man of the Match after scoring two brilliant goals and consistently terrorizing the French defense.

Yamal’s movement, intelligence, and poise on the ball belied his age, reinforcing his status as one of football’s most exciting young talents.

Next Stop: Munich Final

Spain will now face Portugal in the final on Sunday, June 8, at the Allianz Arena in Munich. La Roja will aim to defend their Nations League crown and lift the trophy for the second consecutive time.

Match Stats Snapshot

Goals: Spain (Williams 9’, Merino 17’, Yamal 22’, 33’, Pedri 48’)

France (Mbappé 41’ pen, Cherki 61’, Vivian OG 78’, Kolo Muani 90+3’)

Man of the Match: Lamine Yamal

Possession: Spain 56% – France 44%

Shots on Target: Spain 7 – France 6

It was a night of drama, goals, and a new chapter in Yamal’s burgeoning legend.

In a thrilling UEFA Nations League semi-final at Munich’s Allianz Arena on June 4, 2025, Portugal overcame a second-half deficit to defeat Germany 2–1, securing their spot in the final.

Match Summary

After a goalless first half, Germany broke the deadlock in the 48th minute when Florian Wirtz headed in a precise cross from Joshua Kimmich.

However, Portugal responded emphatically. In the 62nd minute, substitute Francisco Conceição unleashed a stunning long-range strike to level the score.

Just six minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 137th international goal, converting a cross from Nuno Mendes to give Portugal the lead. 

Germany pressed for an equalizer, with notable efforts including a shot that struck the post and a double save by Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

Despite their efforts, Germany couldn’t find a way past the resilient Portuguese defense.

Key Moments

48’ – Goal for Germany: Florian Wirtz heads in from a Joshua Kimmich cross.

62’ – Equalizer for Portugal: Francisco Conceição scores with a powerful shot from distance.

68’ – Winner for Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo converts a cross from Nuno Mendes.

Tactical Analysis

Germany, under Julian Nagelsmann, started with a 3-4-2-1 formation, aiming to control the midfield and press high.

Their strategy paid off early in the second half with Wirtz’s goal.

However, Portugal’s manager, Roberto Martínez, made impactful substitutions, bringing on Conceição and Vitinha, which shifted the momentum in Portugal’s favor.

The fresh legs and tactical adjustments allowed Portugal to exploit spaces in Germany’s defense, leading to their comeback. 

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Portugal advances to the UEFA Nations League final, where they will face the winner of the Spain vs. France semi-final. The final is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Allianz Arena in Munich. 

Germany will compete in the third-place playoff against the loser of the Spain vs. France match, also on June 8, at the MHPArena in Stuttgart.

This match showcased Portugal’s resilience and tactical flexibility, as they overcame a deficit against a strong German side to secure a place in the final.

On June 4, 2025, football fans around the world will witness one of the most highly anticipated matches of the year as Germany takes on Portugal in the UEFA Nations League semi-final.

Set to take place at the iconic Allianz Arena in Munich, this fixture promises drama, intensity, and top-tier football.

Setting the Stage

This is a historic occasion for Germany, who are appearing in their first-ever Nations League semi-final.

The match kicks off at 21:00 local time (19:00 GMT), with fans tuning in globally via ZDF (Germany), Fox Sports 1 (USA), DAZN, and other major broadcasters.

Germany’s Home Advantage – but at a Cost

Germany comes into this semi-final under the leadership of Julian Nagelsmann, enjoying the home crowd advantage.

However, their preparations have been hindered by a series of injuries to key players. Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz, and Antonio Rüdiger are all ruled out, leaving gaps in both creativity and defense.

Despite these challenges, Germany still has plenty of firepower.

Joshua Kimmich will be central to their midfield control, while Florian Wirtz—who stunned France with a record-breaking goal in 2024—remains a major attacking threat.

Leon Goretzka is also expected to play a key role on both ends of the pitch.

Portugal’s Experience and Firepower

Portugal, under the stewardship of Roberto Martínez, are aiming to become the first country to win the UEFA Nations League twice.

Their route to the semis was hard-fought, needing extra time to overcome Denmark in the previous round.

But with experience and talent across the pitch, they remain a formidable opponent.

Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, continues to defy expectations and leads the Portuguese frontline.

Behind him, Bruno Fernandes orchestrates the attack, while goalkeeper Diogo Costa offers reliability between the posts.

Emerging talents like Rafael Leão add speed and flair to an already dangerous squad.

Tactical Expectations

Germany is likely to focus on dominating possession and controlling the tempo through structured pressing, especially in midfield. In contrast, Portugal could thrive on quick transitions and counter-attacks, exploiting the space left behind by Germany’s high line.

If Germany can find rhythm despite their injury woes, they may control large portions of the match. But Portugal’s ability to break quickly and clinically finish could be the deciding factor.

Head-to-Head Record

Germany holds a significant advantage in past encounters, with 11 wins out of 19 matches. Portugal has only managed three victories, and Germany has won the last five matchups dating back to 2006. However, knockout football often defies history.

Final Thoughts and Prediction

This semi-final has all the ingredients of a classic. Germany’s home support and technical midfield will clash with Portugal’s experience and explosive attack. With both sides eager to reach the final and etch their name into Nations League history, fans can expect a gripping contest.

Prediction: Germany 2 – 1 Portugal

Whether you’re cheering for Die Mannschaft or standing behind the Seleção, this is one match you won’t want to miss.