Germany 1–2 Portugal: Comeback Victory Sends Seleção into Nations League Final

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.