Italy and Germany are set to face off in what promises to be an electrifying encounter in the Quarter Finals of the UEFA Nations League 2024/25. The match is scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2025, kicking off at 13:45 (Mexico City time) at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan. This clash not only represents a battle between two traditional football powerhouses, but it also serves as a crucial step for both teams in their quest for international glory.
Italy enters this high-stakes match following a disappointing loss to France, where they fell 3-1 in their last Group Stage outing. This defeat, while painful, has not dampened their spirit as they aim to recover and assert themselves on home turf. Coach Luciano Spalletti is steering the ship through a phase of renewal, with aspirations of recreating the success they enjoyed during the Euro 2021 triumph. The squad's resilience and determination to bounce back are palpable as they prepare to confront their historical rivals.
On the other side of the pitch is Germany, a team equally eager to reestablish its prominence in the footballing world. Under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, Die Mannschaft arrives in Milan after securing a spot at the top of their group, highlighted by an impressive record that includes a recent 1-1 draw against Hungary. Germany is on a rebuilding trajectory, aiming to bounce back from disappointing performances in recent tournaments, including their early exit during the Euro 2020 held in their homeland. This match is not just about football; it symbolizes Germany's determination to reclaim their place among the elite.
As the two teams prepare to square off, both coaches are expected to employ tactical formations designed to exploit their opponent's weaknesses. Here are the probable lineups:
- Italy: Guglielmo Vicario; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso, Davide Frattesi, Cesare Casadei, Sandro Tonali, Riccardo Calafiori; Moise Kean, Mateo Retegui. Coach: Luciano Spalletti.
- Germany: Alexander Nübel; Joshua Kimmich, Robin Koch, Nico Schlotterbeck, Maximilian Mittelstädt; León Goretzka, Robert Andrich; Leroy Sané, Jamal Musiala, Karim Adeyemi; Deniz Undav. Coach: Julian Nagelsmann.
This encounter is also thrilling from a historical perspective, given the fierce rivalry that has developed over the years. Matches between these two nations are often intense and closely contested, akin to World Cup finals in their significance. Italy and Germany have previously clashed on iconic stages, showcasing memorable moments that fans still cherish today.
The match is expected to attract a vast audience, as viewers will be able to watch the game on platforms such as UEFA TV, ESPN, Disney+, DAZN, and Sky Sports. Kickoff times are orchestrated to allow international viewers to indulge in this sporting spectacle, with various time zones considered: 16:45 in Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay; 15:45 in Bolivia and Venezuela; 14:45 in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru; and 21:45 in Spain.
In the lead-up to the game, injury news has added another layer of complexity, with key players missing from both teams. Italy's Mateo Retegui, who has been instrumental in their attack, will not take the field due to a muscular injury. His absence may place additional pressure on fellow forward Moise Kean, who is expected to step up in this crucial moment.
Germany has also faced challenges in squad selection, with rising star Jamal Musiala taking on a pivotal role in midfield following the injury to Florian Wirtz. Additionally, the team has experienced goalkeeper woes with Marc-André ter Stegen sidelined, elevating Oliver Baumann to the starting role as Germany hopes to solidify their defense further.
With the stakes as high as they are, predictions abound regarding the match's outcome. Sports analysts suggest that Germany, with their recent form and tactical advantages, may edge past Italy. According to 90min's prediction, it could be a narrow victory for Germany, with a final score projected at 2-1. However, Italy’s home advantage and rich footballing heritage could also present a challenge for the German side, making the outcome of this quarter-final unpredictable until the final whistle.
Both teams understand the stakes involved in this match; not only does the winner advance to the semi-finals, but they also set the tone for their future engagements in upcoming tournaments. As they take the pitch at San Siro, the eyes of the footballing world will be watching closely, eager to see whether history will repeat itself or if a new chapter will be written in this celebrated rivalry.
