In a thrilling encounter, the German U21 national team secured a 3-1 victory against Spain, bolstered by a stunning hat-trick from striker Nick Woltemade. However, the match, which took place on March 25, 2025, at the Merck-Stadion in Darmstadt, was marred by an incident where a fan fell from the opposite stand and had to be hospitalized, raising concerns among supporters.
The match attracted a lively crowd of 16,500 spectators, who saw Woltemade rise to the occasion, scoring goals in the 3rd, 56th, and 79th minutes, making him the standout performer of the game. "I have had some good matches in recent weeks, but I have never scored three goals in a professional game. Unbelievable," Woltemade shared with SAT.1 after the match. His exceptional performance not only marked a significant milestone in his career but also contributed to the U21's impressive unbeaten streak, which now stands at 15 games.
The incident involving the fan occurred during the match, leading to a temporary halt in the lively support from the German fans. According to the German Football Association (DFB), the fan was reported to be conscious after the fall, prompting the momentary pause in the festive atmosphere as the crowd awaited news.
Initially, Woltemade's early goal put Germany ahead just three minutes into the match, providing a spark that energized the home crowd. After Spain equalized in the 19th minute through Gabri Veiga, the match turned physical and intense, with both teams displaying skill and determination. The scoreline was tied, but Woltemade was not finished yet.
After halftime, the German U21 team, under the guidance of coach Antonio Di Salvo, returned to the field with renewed vigor. A well-coordinated play saw Paul Nebel assist Woltemade, who, standing at an impressive 1.98 meters, showcased his strength and precision by scoring his second goal in the 56th minute.
Woltemade completed his hat-trick in the 79th minute, solidifying the win for Germany as he expertly found the back of the net once more. Teammate Rocco Reitz praised Woltemade’s performance, saying, "He is very down-to-earth, but today he can celebrate. Not only the three goals, but also how he held the ball. That helps us a lot." This sentiment resonates as the team prepares for the upcoming U21 European Championship in Slovakia, set from June 11 to June 28, 2025.
As the German squad looks ahead to this significant tournament, their opener against Slovenia is fast approaching, just 79 days away. They will also face the Czech Republic on June 15 and England on June 18, all critical matches in their quest to regain prominence in the U21 scene.
Reflecting on the match, Coach Di Salvo, who recently extended his contract until 2027, expressed confidence in his players and their preparation, stating, "We chose a bold approach against five-time European champions Spain and were rewarded for our courage." This victory serves as a crucial stepping stone in the final preparations for the U21s, showcasing not only the depth of talent within German football but also the team's resilience in overcoming adversity.
The incident with the fan serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with live sporting events. While the support and energy from the fans are paramount, safety remains an essential aspect of the viewing experience. As the DFB manages the aftermath of the incident, the focus returns to football, where players like Woltemade are eager to leave their mark on the upcoming championship.
Ultimately, this match not only highlighted the prowess of young talents like Woltemade but also framed the atmosphere surrounding German football as they prepare for an exciting chapter ahead. The U21 team is on the right track, with their eyes set firmly on success as they approach the European Championship.
