Portugal Stuns Germany to Reach UEFA Nations League Final

Munich, June 4, 2025 — Portugal broke a 25-year winless streak against Germany with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory in the UEFA Nations League semifinal, booking their place in Sunday’s final.

The match, played at a rain-soaked Allianz Arena, saw both teams locked in a tense, goalless first half. The deadlock was broken just after the interval when Germany’s Florian Wirtz headed home a pinpoint cross from Joshua Kimmich in the 48th minute, sending the home fans into celebration.

But Portugal, under coach Roberto Martínez, responded with tactical changes that turned the tide. Substitute Francisco Conceição, son of former international Sérgio Conceição—who famously scored a hat-trick in Portugal’s last win over Germany at Euro 2000—made an immediate impact. Conceição unleashed a stunning long-range strike in the 63rd minute to level the score.

Just five minutes later, Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name into the record books once again. The 40-year-old forward finished off a slick move involving Nuno Mendes and Bruno Fernandes, tapping in his 137th international goal and becoming the oldest player ever to score against Germany.

The match was briefly halted due to severe weather and hail, but the drama resumed with Portugal holding firm against late German pressure. Despite several key saves from Germany’s Marc-André ter Stegen, the hosts could not find an equalizer.

Germany’s captain admitted after the match that his team “deserved to lose,” citing a lackluster first-half performance and missed opportunities after taking the lead.

Portugal’s victory marks their first over Germany since 2000 and sets up a highly anticipated Nations League final against the winner of Thursday’s Spain vs. France clash.

Lineups:

Germany: Ter Stegen, Anton, Tah, Koch, Kimmich, Goretzka, Pavlovic, Sane, Wirtz, Woltemade

Portugal: D. Costa, Mendes, Inacio, Dias, Neves, Fernandes, R. Neves, Silva, Neto, Ronaldo, Trincao

With tactical flexibility and the brilliance of their substitutes, Portugal now stands just one win away from another major international trophy.

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