
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner when Portugal entered the UEFA Nations League finals 2-1 victories over Germany on Wednesday 4 June. Portuguese first victory over Germany since 2000, because the first title Nations League raised for the first time in 2019.
Germany was dominant in the first half, but the score was maintained on 0-0 thanks to the brilliance of Diogo Costa in the goal for Portugal. In the fourth minute he rescued from the low shot Leon Goretzka, followed by an incredible savings from the effort of nearby reach Nick Woltemade. Two minutes later he came to rescue again for Euro 2016 champions by denial Goretzka.
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However, Germany took the lead in the 48th minute when Florian Writz headed from the gentle passage by Joshua Kimmich. Portugal, however, bounced off and for the first time Francisco Conceicao in the 63rd minute with a stunning shot from the outside of the box after a gentle run. For Conceicao, the match was meaningful because his father Sergio scored a hat -trick when Portugal last defeated Germany in 2000.
Five minutes later, Nuno Mendes helped Ronaldo catch the winner when he elevated the Portuguese super -star with a fine pass.
Germany tried to move the momentum after Portugal took the lead with Karim Adeyami, released a powerful shot that hit the place. Portugal could score a third goal, but Marc Ter-Stegen made a double storage to keep the score to 2-1.
Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez said it was a team victory and said they wanted another such performance in the finals.
“We have to enjoy the victory – we won for the first time in a while against Germany. Tactically we were exceptional and our commitment helped … It was a team victory,” said Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez.
“Now we can recover and evaluate,” he added. “We want another performance with the personality in this shirt.”
Portugal will now face Spain or France in the final on Sunday, June 8.
Published on:
June 5, 2025