In a dramatic showdown, Germany triumphed over Italy with a nail-biting 5-4 aggregate score in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, marking the first time Germany has reached the semifinals of this tournament. The German team showcased determination and skill, with a draw of 3-3 in the second leg held in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 64,762 spectators at Dortmund. This hard-fought victory propels Germany into a semifinal matchup against Portugal, who eliminated Denmark 5-3 in their quarterfinal encounter, after extra time.
Germany's semi-final match against Portugal is set to take place in Munich on June 4, 2025. Only four days later, the final will also be hosted in the Bavarian city, promising an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
Previously, the path to Germany's success was paved by a series of intense encounters. In the second leg against Italy, they struggled to maintain dominance at the onset but found their rhythm as the game progressed. The team's head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, opted for a strong lineup including Oliver Baumann in goal, with a back three comprising Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rüdiger, and Nico Schlotterbeck. Midfield was anchored by Angelo Stiller and Leon Goretzka, while Joshua Kimmich and Maximilian Mittelstädt played wide. The attack featured Leroy Sané and Jamal Musiala, supporting striker Tim Kleindienst.
The match kicked off with palpable energy, as both teams created opportunities. Goretzka fired the first warning shot for Germany in the second minute. Italy followed a mere two minutes later when Giovanni Di Lorenzo's cross required a spectacular clearance from Tah to avert a potential threat. The contest soon transformed into a high-octane affair, characterized by fierce duels and relentless attacking.
Germany's first significant breakthrough came in the 15th minute when a corner taken by Kimmich caused chaos inside the Italian box. Although goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma struggled to clear the delivery, Germany could not capitalize on the opportunity.
Momentum shifted in favor of the hosts in the 30th minute when Kimmich confidently converted a penalty after Kleindienst was fouled by Italian defender Alessandro Buongiorno. This set Germany on their path to control the match. Reacting quickly, they reclaimed possession and mounted several more attempts at Italy's goal. Just six minutes later, a combination of quick passing allowed Musiala to score from close range, as he easily turned the ball into the net following a corner kick situation, doubling Germany’s lead.
The first half concluded on a high note for Germany with Kleindienst heading home off a cross just before the whistle, bringing the score to 3-1. However, Italy responded almost immediately after halftime. In the 49th minute, a defensive mishap from Germany allowed Moise Kean to race through and slot a goal into the bottom corner, making it 3-2.
Germany faced intense pressure, and adjustments were necessary. In the 63rd minute, Nagelsmann replaced Stiller and Goretzka with Nadiem Amiri and Pascal Groß, hoping to inject fresh energy. Despite a few bright moments, Italy continued to push, with Kean darting into the penalty area to curl another effort to narrow the gap further in the 69th minute.
Drama unfolded in the 74th minute when Italy was awarded a penalty, but the decision was overturned after a VAR review. Although German captain Kimmich nearly found the back of the net again with a striking free kick saved in the 82nd minute, the tension peaked when Mittelstädt was penalized for a handball in stoppage time. Giacomo Raspadori scored the resulting penalty, equalizing in the 90+5th minute, thereby ensuring a thrilling finish.
Ultimately, Germany survived the final moments and held on for a 3-3 draw in this second leg, leading to a 5-4 aggregate victory and progression to the semifinals. Despite a history of favoring Germany—where they have not lost to Portugal in their last five matchups, with Portugal winning only three of 19 past meetings—the German squad remains focused. Head coach Martínez must strategize against the formidable task ahead.
The anticipation builds for the upcoming semifinal clash between Germany and Portugal, with Germany eyeing a strong performance to continue their successful run in the tournament.
