Portugal has reached the UEFA Nations League final after achieving a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Germany. The winning goal came from their star player, Cristiano Ronaldo, in the 68th minute. This goal was enough to clinch the win for Portugal and put an end to Germany`s impressive run of seven matches without defeat in the semifinals on Wednesday. It was Ronaldo`s sixth goal in his last ten games for the national team. His strike, combined with a quick goal from Francisco Conceicao just five minutes earlier after coming on as a substitute, was key in overturning Florian Wirtz`s opening goal for Germany.
Germany dominated the first half of the match, controlling possession and territory, but they were unable to find a breakthrough despite their efforts. Portugal`s performance significantly improved after the break, especially following tactical changes and the introduction of players like Conceicao. In the second half alone, Portugal registered thirteen shots, five of which were on target, while effectively limiting Germany to only one shot, which was Wirtz`s goal. Coach Roberto Martinez demonstrated effective game management, guiding Portugal to their first victory over Germany since the year 2000 at a crucial stage of the competition.
German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game, including a vital double stop against Diogo Jota and Conceicao in the 89th minute. However, his efforts weren`t enough to compensate for Germany`s struggling attack. Although Julian Nagelsmann`s team has shown some signs of progress recently, this result highlighted areas where they need to improve, as they lacked an effective response to Portugal`s mid-match adjustments.
Portugal now has the opportunity to win their first major international honor since lifting the inaugural UEFA Nations League trophy in 2019. They will face the winner of the other semifinal between France and Spain in the final, which is scheduled to be played at the Allianz Arena in Germany on Sunday. Under the guidance of Roberto Martinez, who took charge in 2023 following Portugal`s disappointing World Cup exit in Qatar, the squad appears to be moving in a positive direction as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
