Portugal defeated Germany 2–1 in the UEFA Nations League semifinal, held on June 4, 2025, at the Allianz Arena in Munich. After falling behind early, the Portuguese team responded with two decisive goals one from Francisco Conceição and another from Cristiano Ronaldo securing a historic victory, their first against Germany in 25 years.
This triumph not only books their place in the grand final but also reaffirms the tactical and collective strength of Roberto Martínez’s side.
🕒 First Half: German Control and Spectacular Saves
Balanced Start with German Pressure
The match began tense and tactical. Germany, lined up in a 3‑4‑2‑1 formation, controlled the early phases, with slightly more possession and pace on the wings. Portugal, on the other hand, relied on Pedro Neto’s quick runs down the left but failed to create clear chances in the opening 20 minutes.
Diogo Costa’s Saves and Resistance to German Pressure
The Portuguese goalkeeper was the standout during this phase. Between the 4th and 6th minutes, Diogo Costa made two miraculous saves denying a low shot from Goretzka and blocking a close-range effort from Woltemade. Shortly after, he saved a powerful attempt by Wirtz, keeping the game level.
Slower Pace Before the Break
As the half progressed, the match lost intensity, although Germany continued to have more attacking momentum. Portugal defended well, neutralizing Germany’s advances and sending the game into halftime with no goals.
⚽ Second Half: Blistering Reaction and Historic Comeback
Germany Scores Early
Just three minutes into the second half, Florian Wirtz converted a cross from Joshua Kimmich with an unmarked header, opening the scoring. VAR reviewed and confirmed the goal as valid.
Portugal’s Tactical Shake-up
Immediately after conceding, Roberto Martínez made three crucial substitutions: Francisco Conceição, Vitinha, and Nélson Semedo came on. These changes restructured the midfield, enabling Portugal to launch more incisive counterattacks.
Stunner from Conceição Levels the Score
In the 63rd minute, Francisco Conceição received the ball outside the box, dribbled quickly, and curled a brilliant shot over Ter Stegen to equalize. A stunning goal that lifted Portugal’s confidence.
Ronaldo Completes the Turnaround with His 100th Goal
Just five minutes later, Nuno Mendes exchanged passes with Bruno Fernandes on the left and delivered a low cross to Cristiano Ronaldo, who slid in to score his 137th international goal, sealing the comeback.
German Pressure and Key Saves
Despite Germany’s push to respond highlighted by Adeyemi hitting the post in the 82nd minute Portugal held firm. Ter Stegen denied chances from Diogo Jota and Conceição, preventing the scoreline from growing.
📊 Impact on Standings and What’s Next
This result sends Portugal to the Nations League final, marking their return to a tournament final since 2019, when they won the inaugural title. Germany will compete for third place against the loser of Spain vs. France on Sunday.
The win gives Portugal the chance to become the first two-time champion of the competition. The final will be played against Spain or France on Sunday, June 8.
🧠 Tactical Analysis: Formation, Strengths, and Weaknesses
Portugal (4‑3‑3 / Flexible 4‑2‑3‑1)
- Solid Defensive Structure: Rúben Dias and Gonçalo Inácio locked down the center, with Nuno Mendes and Neves providing support on the flanks.
- Midfield Control: Vitinha helped control the tempo, linking up with Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes in fast transitions.
- Wing Speed: Conceição’s entrance boosted the attack down the right flank, breaking Germany’s defense.
- Crossing Efficiency: Nuno Mendes was key in overlapping with Bruno Fernandes, leading to Ronaldo’s goal.
Germany (3‑4‑2‑1 / Adaptable 3‑5‑2)
- Width on the Wings: Kimmich and Mittelstädt tried to create overloads on the flanks but were exposed after halftime.
- Versatile but Reactive Midfield: Goretzka contributed to pressing and build-up but was vulnerable to Portugal’s fast transitions.
- Struggled with Tempo Shifts: After Portugal’s subs, Germany lost tactical cohesion and couldn’t contain the Conceição-Ronaldo duo.
⭐ Man of the Match: Francisco Conceição
Francisco Conceição was named UEFA’s “Man of the Match.” At just 22 years old, he entered in the 58th minute and changed the game’s complexion with sharp dribbles, energy, and a bold curling shot that tied the score. His performance echoed his footballing heritage his father Sérgio Conceição scored a hat-trick against Germany in 2000.
📚 Fun Facts: Portugal vs. Germany
- This was Portugal’s first win over Germany in 25 years.
- The last Portuguese victory came at Euro 2000, with Sérgio Conceição’s hat-trick.
- Cristiano Ronaldo finally scored his first goal against Germany, after five consecutive defeats.
- He also became the oldest player ever to score against Germany, at age 40.
📅 Next Fixtures
- Portugal: Faces Spain in the UEFA Nations League final on Sunday, June 8, again at Allianz Arena.
- Germany: Plays for third place against Spain or France on the same day, in Stuttgart.
The semifinal between Germany and Portugal delivered a show of tactical resilience, defensive precision, and explosive attacking. This classic European clash featured a thrilling comeback, headlined by Cristiano Ronaldo’s killer instinct and Francisco Conceição’s audacity. Roberto Martínez’s side balanced composure and creativity, securing not only a place in the final but also the chance to become the first two-time UEFA Nations League champions.
