Portugal Stun Germany with Second-Half Comeback to Reach UEFA Nations League Final

Portugal are through to the UEFA Nations League final after a spirited second-half fightback secured a 2-1 victory over Germany at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

In a gripping semi-final clash, hosts Germany controlled much of the opening 45 minutes and created the better chances. Despite both sides heading into the break goalless, Julian Nagelsmann’s men held the upper hand in attacking momentum, with Leon Goretzka and Nick Woltemade both going close while Diogo Costa was forced into several sharp saves.

The breakthrough arrived just three minutes into the second half, when Florian Wirtz exchanged a neat one-two with Joshua Kimmich who was making his 100th international appearance before heading past Costa to give Germany a deserved lead.

However, Portugal responded emphatically. Roberto Martínez introduced Francisco Conceição in the 58th minute, and the Juventus winger needed just five minutes to make an impact. Picking up a pass from Rúben Dias on the right flank, Conceição cut inside and curled a stunning 20-yard strike into the far corner, leaving Marc-André ter Stegen with no chance.

The turnaround was completed another five minutes later when Nuno Mendes burst down the left and squared for Cristiano Ronaldo, who tapped home into an empty net for what proved to be the decisive goal.

Portugal’s attacking resurgence continued as they came close to adding a third through Diogo Jota and Conceição, while Germany hit the woodwork via Karim Adeyemi in the closing stages.

Despite Germany’s late pressure, Portugal held firm to book their place in Sunday’s final, where they’ll face the winner of the Spain vs. France semi-final.

Germany, meanwhile, will have to regroup quickly as they prepare for the third-place play-off on the same day against the loser of the other semi-final.