Italy and Germany will collide in one of the most intriguing confrontations of the quarterfinals of the League of Nations 2024/25. Scheduled to kick off on March 20, 2025, at 21:45, this match comes as both teams look to wash away the memories of their disappointing outings in Euro 2024.
According to bookmakers, Italy is seen as a slight favorite going into the matchup. After the Euro 2024 disappointment, where Italy's performance left much to be desired, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) opted to maintain Luciano Spalletti as head coach instead of seeking a new direction. Under Spalletti's guidance, Italy managed a smooth passage through the group stage, competing fiercely against teams like France, Belgium, and Israel, where they only faltered with a 1:3 loss to France that cost them the top spot in their group.
Spalletti’s tenure has included numerous internal changes aimed at improving the players’ focus and performance. A ban on gambling applications, restrictions on gadget use, and a rigorous attention to diet have contributed to a newfound discipline within the squad.
However, Italy will approach this match without some key players. Federico Dimarco has just recovered from an injury and was not called up, leading to the left side of defense being entrusted to the speedy Udogi. Additionally, Mateo Retegi, who has been performing splendidly with Atalanta, scoring 25 goals across all competitions this season, will miss both matches against Germany due to muscular issues. As a result, coach Spalletti is likely to field Giacomo Raspadori alongside Moise Kean in the 3-5-2 formation.
The history between Italy and Germany is not on the side of the Azzurri. Italy has not defeated Germany since the Euro 2012 semi-finals, where they won 2:1 thanks to a brace from Mario Balotelli. Since then, they have faced each other six times, with Italy recording four draws and two defeats, including a painful 2:5 loss in the League of Nations that saw players like Nyonto and Bastoni struggle to avoid a bigger rout.
On the other hand, Germany breezed through the group stage of the League of Nations with relative ease, with only the Netherlands providing any real challenge. In the two matches against the Dutch, they managed a 2:2 draw away and a 1:0 victory at home, thanks to a second-half goal by Lyuling. The German national team, despite their own disappointment from Euro 2024 where they exited in the quarterfinals to Spain, has shown resilience and remains one of the strongest global contenders.
Julian Nagelsmann has shaped a formidable squad, though they will miss key players like Kai Havertz and Niclas Füllkrug. However, the return of midfielders Leon Goretzka and Nadim Amiri adds depth to their lineup. Germany’s main goalkeeper, Baumann, will take charge in the absence of the injured ter Stegen, while youthful talents like Burkardt are anticipated to fill in for the stricken attackers.
Germany has demonstrated confidence on the attacking front, scoring an impressive 18 goals during thegroup stage matches in League A. They’re not only a potent attack but also possess the creativity and quality to exploit Italy’s defensive vulnerabilities, as Italy’s defense has struggled to keep a clean sheet in recent matches—achieving this only once in their last nine outings.
With both nations looking to prove a point and regain confidence, the matchup is set to deliver an intense encounter. Bettors have noted trends in their face-offs, with four of the last six games in regulation time ending in draws and seven of the past eight yielding goals from both teams.
The anticipated formations for the match between Italy and Germany will likely showcase Italy in a 3-5-2 style, with a lineup featuring Donnarumma, Bastoni, and Udogi trying to secure their defense while pushing forward with keen support from midfield. Meanwhile, Germany may opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation, ensuring mobility and creativity with players like Musiala and Sane leading their offensive movements.
As fans from both nations prepare to watch this crucial showdown, the question remains: will Italy finally overcome their curse against Germany, or will the Germans continue their dominance? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—this historic rivalry is bound to bring fireworks to the pitch.
In previewing this head-to-head, predictions lean towards a possible scoreline of 1-2 in favor of Germany, a testament to the formidable strength and cohesion that Nagelsmann’s team currently exhibits.
