MUNICH – Portugal booked their ticket to the Portugal Nations League final with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Germany in a tense UEFA Nations League semi-final. Germany drew first blood through Florian Wirtz, but quick-fire goals from Francisco Conceição and the ever-reliable Cristiano Ronaldo turned the match on its head in Munich, sending Portuguese fans into raptures.
The home crowd in Munich had every reason to cheer when Florian Wirtz broke the deadlock early in the second half. His perfectly placed header, connecting with a Joshua Kimmich cross in the 48th minute, put Germany in the driver’s seat. “We came out strong after the break,” Kimmich commented. “That goal felt like the momentum shift we needed.” However, that German optimism proved short-lived as Portugal mounted a swift and decisive counter-attack.
Portugal’s Lightning Response Sinks German Hopes
Portugal’s reply was both swift and clinical, silencing the home supporters. First, Francisco Conceição unleashed a rocket of a shot in the 63rd minute, leveling the score. Rúben Dias provided the crucial assist for the stunning equalizer. “I saw the space and took my chance,” a delighted Conceição said after his vital goal.
Just five minutes later, the narrative shifted entirely. Cristiano Ronaldo, a man for the big occasion, coolly finished a pass from Nuno Mendes in the 68th minute, putting Portugal ahead. “When we believe, we fight till the end,” declared Ronaldo, celebrating what would ultimately be the winning goal. This spirited comeback punched Portugal’s ticket to the Nations League final.
Tempers Flare as Portugal Holds Firm
The intensity of the semi-final was evident in the flurry of yellow cards. Portugal’s Rúben Neves and their coach Roberto Martínez found themselves in the referee’s book in the 52nd minute. Germany’s Jonathan Tah was also cautioned later, in the 80th minute. Tensions boiled over in the 84th minute, leading to bookings for Germany’s Wirtz and Niclas Füllkrug, alongside Portugal’s Rúben Dias.
Despite the heated atmosphere and late German pressure, Portugal’s defense stood firm to secure the 2-1 triumph. The win means they will contest Sunday’s final at the Allianz Arena. Football fans can also look forward to the third-place match, kicking off earlier that day in Stuttgart. The other semi-final, a clash between Spain and France, is set for Thursday at 1900 GMT.
By Kayode Ojo
