The 2024/25 UEFA Nations League returns with a high-stakes semifinal showdown as two European heavyweights, Germany and Portugal, go head-to-head in the tournament’s first final-four clash tomorrow. With a spot in the final on the line, all eyes will be on whether Germany can continue their historical dominance over Portugal, or if Cristiano Ronaldo and company will flip the script.
New-Look Germany, Same Winning Mentality
Still chasing their first UEFA Nations League title, Germany comes into this semifinal with renewed energy under manager Julian Nagelsmann. After a disappointing quarterfinal exit in last year’s European Championship, the German squad underwent significant changes. Veteran stalwarts like Manuel Neuer, Ilkay Gündogan, and Thomas Müller have retired from international duty, paving the way for a younger, hungrier team.
While defensive mainstays Antonio Rüdiger, Yann Bisseck, and Angelo Stiller are sidelined due to injury, the team is boosted by the return of Barcelona keeper Marc-André ter Stegen. He’s expected to start behind a defence likely featuring Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Waldemar Anton, and Maximilian Mittelstädt. In midfield and attack, Germany’s lineup is packed with creative firepower: Leon Goretzka, Pascal Groß, Leroy Sané, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, and Deniz Undav could all feature from the start.
Portugal Leans on Experience for Another Title Run
Portugal, winners of the inaugural Nations League in 2019, are still under the guidance of manager Roberto Martínez and continue to lean on their experienced core. At the centre of it all is 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who will captain the side and lead the front line. Alongside him, midfield maestro Bruno Fernandes remains a vital creative force.
The squad is fully fit heading into the semifinal, giving Martínez the luxury of fielding a full-strength lineup. While stars like Vitinha, Rúben Neves, and Nuno Mendes are fresh off the UEFA Champions League final and may be dealing with fatigue, they’re still expected to feature due to the match’s importance.
Portugal’s probable XI includes Diogo Costa in goal; Diogo Dalot, António Silva, Rúben Dias, and Nuno Mendes in defence; Neves, Vitinha, Bernardo Silva in midfield; with Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão supporting Cristiano Ronaldo up top.
Germany topped their group ahead of the Netherlands, Hungary, and Bosnia with 14 points, then edged out Italy in a dramatic two-legged quarterfinal, winning 5–4 on aggregate. While their attack has looked fluid, defensive lapses have made matches far more nerve-wracking than they need to be.
Portugal also finished with 14 points in a group featuring Scotland, Croatia, and Poland. Their quarterfinal clash with Denmark turned into a goal fest, ending 3–3 in regular time before Portugal scored twice in extra time to seal a 5–3 win.
Head-to-Head History Favours Germany
Historically, Germany has dominated this matchup. In 19 previous meetings, Die Mannschaft have won 11, drawn five, and lost just three. Since 2006, Germany has defeated Portugal in several high-profile matches, including a 4–0 thrashing at the 2014 World Cup and a 4–2 win at Euro 2021.
That said, Portugal did break the curse once, at Euro 2020, when they beat Germany 4–2 in a memorable group stage match. That result proved they can go toe-to-toe with the Germans when everything clicks.
Germany will have home-field advantage, youthful energy, and two of Europe’s most exciting young talents in Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. Their high-tempo pressing game could be too much for Portugal if the visitors struggle to keep pace.
On the other hand, Portugal has the advantage of experience, technical finesse, and one of the greatest finishers in history leading the line. But questions remain over the chemistry between Ronaldo and Portugal’s newer attacking options, which could limit their effectiveness.
It’s youth vs. experience, flair vs. structure, legacy vs. ambition. This semifinal promises to deliver drama, goals, and elite football. Can Germany’s new era announce itself with a statement win at home? Or will Portugal’s seasoned stars push through for one more shot at glory?
Whichever side prevails, fans are in for a thrilling ride.
