The highly anticipated quarter-final match of the UEFA Nations League will see the German national team face off against Italy on March 20, 2025, in Milan's Giuseppe Meazza Stadium. This clash marks a significant moment in the football calendar, as both teams are storied rivals, with Germany coached by Julian Nagelsmann and Italy under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti.
Germany's national team has been on an upward trajectory since Nagelsmann took over in September 2023. Known for his tactical acumen, Nagelsmann aims to lead his squad beyond their historic rivalry with the Italians. The stakes are high for this match, as performances in the Nations League can significantly influence momentum heading into future competitions.
In a tense historical backdrop, Italy has often held the upper hand against Germany during critical moments. Past encounters include notable defeats for Germany at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 UEFA European Championship, both of which saw Italy eliminate the German team from contention. Acknowledging this pressure, Nagelsmann stated, “The quarter-final against Italy is very important for us. These are two games that we absolutely want to approach positively.”
The match is set to kick off at 20:45 CET and will be broadcasted live on ARD, allowing fans to follow the action closely. Viewers will also have the option to stream the game via ARD Mediathek and Joyn, ensuring comprehensive access to this marquee matchup.
Completing the picture, recent developments in both squads add an additional layer of intrigue. Unfortunately for the Italian side, they will be without their top striker, Mateo Retegui, who has been instrumental in their campaign with 22 goals in Serie A this season. The 25-year-old has been sidelined due to a thigh injury, leaving Italy with a significant hole to fill in their offensive lineup. Potential replacements include Giacomo Raspadori of Napoli or Moise Kean from Fiorentina, both of whom will need to step up to fill Retegui’s shoes.
On the other hand, Germany’s lineup sees the return of Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka, who is poised to make a significant impact after missing earlier fixtures. Meanwhile, 24-year-old Yann Bisseck from Inter Milan could potentially make his debut at his home ground in the stadium where the match will take place.
In terms of historical encounters, Italy and Germany have faced off 38 times in competitive matches, with Italy holding a slight edge with 15 wins to Germany's 11, alongside 12 draws. The last encounter was especially memorable for Germany, as they secured a decisive 5-2 victory in the Nations League group stage on June 14, 2022.
As the match approaches, excitement is palpable among fans and analysts alike, with many eagerly anticipating how the absence of Retegui will affect Italy's strategy against a robust German side. This rivalry has always been marked by high stakes and passionate performances, with both teams aiming to assert dominance in one of football's most famous matchups.
The world of football will be watching closely as these two footballing giants clash once again. On the line is not just pride, but a place in the semi-finals of the Nations League, adding extra significance to this already classic confrontation.
