Cristiano Ronaldo once again rose to the occasion, inspiring Portugal to a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over hosts Germany in the UEFA Nations League semi-final at Munich Football Arena.
After Florian Wirtz’s early second-half header had put the hosts ahead, second-half goals from Francisco Conceição and Ronaldo sealed a thrilling turnaround, sending the 2019 champions into Sunday’s final.
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Early German Pressure Meets Costa’s Resistance
Germany started the game aggressively, testing Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa in the opening exchanges. Leon Goretzka’s powerful effort in the 21st minute was expertly palmed away, while debutant Nick Woltemade was denied with a crucial stop. Costa’s alertness was again on display when he kept out Florian Wirtz’s curling attempt destined for the top corner, preserving Portugal’s composure during a demanding first half.
Despite Germany’s early dominance, Portugal showed flashes of attacking threat, with Cristiano Ronaldo forcing a save from Marc-André ter Stegen inside the first seven minutes. Notably, this match marked significant milestones for Germany, with Joshua Kimmich earning his 100th cap and Serge Gnabry reaching 50 appearances, both at their home stadium in Munich.
Wirtz Puts Hosts Ahead With a Cool Finish
Germany’s control paid off shortly after the interval. In the 48th minute, Wirtz and Joshua Kimmich combined beautifully, showcasing their telepathic understanding. The Leverkusen youngster slipped a short pass to Kimmich—celebrating his 100th cap—on the edge of the area before ghosting into the box and meeting the return ball with a deft header across goal, giving the hosts a deserved lead.
It looked as though Germany were ready to cement their place in the final with their fluidity and possession dominance. But Portugal had other ideas.
Conceição and Ronaldo Flip the Script
Portugal responded with remarkable flair. Substitute Francisco Conceição ignited the comeback, cutting in from the right wing and unleashing a beautifully curled shot around Ter Stegen in the 63rd minute. His fantastic strike initiated the turnaround, showcasing the young winger’s growing influence.
Five minutes later, Nuno Mendes linked with Bruno Fernandes down the flank before delivering a precise low cross for Ronaldo to tap in his 137th international goal—extending his record as the highest international scorer ever. This goal not only shifted the scoreboard but also Portugal’s momentum. Cristiano Ronaldo extended his all-time international scoring record by netting his 137th goal.
This impressive comeback highlighted Portugal’s resilience and quality. They have now lost just one of their last nine Nations League matches (W6 D2), and overall, excluding penalty shoot-outs, have been defeated in only four of their last 29 international games (W21 D4). Their defensive solidity was evident as Portugal have not conceded before halftime in seven consecutive Nations League fixtures.
Germany Falter Despite Late Surge
Germany pressed desperately for an equalizer. Substitute Karim Adeyemi came agonizingly close, rattling the post with a fierce strike. Ter Stegen kept the hosts alive with a remarkable double save in the 89th minute from Diogo Jota and Conceição. Despite these efforts, Germany failed to find the back of the net again.
This narrow loss dashed Germany’s hopes of claiming their first international trophy since the 2017 Confederations Cup. Although Kimmich’s assist on his centenary appearance and Wirtz’s creativity were bright spots, they could not overcome Portugal’s clinical second-half display. Notably, the last seven meetings between these two teams have produced a staggering 26 goals, reflecting the high-octane nature of their encounters.
Portugal March Into Another Final
Portugal’s turnaround was a showcase of character, tactical adaptation, and individual brilliance. After the break, they emerged with composure, attacking verve, and confidence. Conceição’s dribbling and attacking instincts were key to their resurgence, while veterans like Ronaldo and Fernandes provided the experience and calm required on such a stage.
Portugal advance to the Nations League final with a composed victory over hosts Germany. Despite conceding first, a moment of brilliance from Francisco Conceição and a Ronaldo tap-in sealed a well-earned win, highlighted by their confident and high-quality second-half display.
Having secured their spot in the final, the Seleção aim to become the first team to win the competition twice, facing either Spain or France in the ultimate showdown.
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FAQs
How did Portugal come back to beat Germany in the Nations League semi-final?
Portugal scored two second-half goals from Francisco Conceição and Cristiano Ronaldo to overturn Germany’s lead and win 2-1.
Who scored the opening goal for Germany against Portugal?
Florian Wirtz headed in the first goal for Germany early in the second half.
What milestones did Joshua Kimmich and Serge Gnabry reach in the match?
Kimmich earned his 100th international cap, and Gnabry made his 50th appearance for Germany during this game.
How many international goals has Cristiano Ronaldo scored after this match?
Ronaldo extended his record to 137 international goals, the highest ever by any player.
What is Portugal’s next step after defeating Germany in the semi-final?
Portugal will face either Spain or France in the Nations League final, aiming to become the first team to win the tournament twice.
