2 days ago
Cristiano Ronaldo, Francisco Conceicao lead Portugal to Nations League Final with 2-1 win over Germany
Portugal defeat Germany to advance to UEFA Nations League Final
Portugal secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Germany in the
UEFA Nations League semifinals
on Wednesday, June 4, advancing to the final for the second time in tournament history. Cristiano Ronaldo and Francisco Conceicao scored in the second half to overturn Germany's early lead, earned through a Florian Wirtz header.
Germany went ahead in the 48th minute after Florian Wirtz capitalized on a turnover by Trincao. The midfielder initiated a passing sequence with Joshua Kimmich, who delivered a return ball into open space. Wirtz headed the ball past Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa to give Germany the lead.
VAR was used to confirm Wirtz was onside before the goal was awarded. The decision prompted visible frustration from Portugal's manager Roberto Martinez, who was shown a yellow card for dissent.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Undo
Francisco Conceicao scores equalizer, shifts momentum
Portugal responded in the 63rd minute through substitute Francisco Conceicao. Shortly after Cristiano Ronaldo's free-kick attempt was blocked, Conceicao found space on the right wing. Cutting inside, the winger struck a curling shot from outside the box into the far-left corner, past Germany's goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
The goal immediately shifted momentum in favor of Portugal. Conceicao, who had only recently entered the match, provided a critical attacking spark that changed the complexion of the game. His contribution also marked a significant moment in his growing international profile, delivering in a high-pressure semifinal.
Cristiano Ronaldo secures victory with decisive goal
Just three minutes after the equalizer, Portugal took the lead through Cristiano Ronaldo. The move started with Nuno Mendes combining with Bruno Fernandes on the left flank. Mendes advanced into the penalty area and passed across to Ronaldo, who finished with a simple tap-in to make it 2-1.
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The goal was Ronaldo's 137th for Portugal and ensured their place in the Nations League final. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa also made several key saves late in the match to preserve the lead and secure the victory.
Portugal will now prepare for the Nations League final scheduled for June 8, where they will face the winner of the second semifinal between France and Spain. With this victory, Portugal have a chance to become the first team to win the UEFA Nations League twice, following their 2019 title.
Germany, meanwhile, will play in the third-place match against the loser of the France-Spain semifinal.
