Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 137th international goal as Portugal staged a dramatic comeback to beat Germany 2–1 on Wednesday, sealing a spot in the UEFA Nations League final.
Cristiano Ronaldo, at age 40, proved decisive once again by scoring the winning goal in Portugal’s 2–1 victory over Germany in the UEFA Nations League semi-final on Wednesday night. The win marks Portugal’s first triumph over Germany since 2000 and secures their place in Sunday’s final.
Despite a dominant first half from Germany, the game remained goalless thanks to a series of brilliant saves by Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa. The keeper denied early attempts from Leon Goretzka and Nick Woltemade, keeping the score level at the break.
Germany finally broke through in the 48th minute when Florian Wirtz headed in from a pinpoint assist by Joshua Kimmich. But Portugal responded swiftly — substitute Francisco Conceicao equalised in the 63rd minute, and just five minutes later, Nuno Mendes set up Ronaldo for a close-range tap-in that proved to be the match-winner.
Conceicao’s goal carried added emotional weight, as his father, Sergio Conceicao, famously scored a hat-trick the last time Portugal defeated Germany, back at Euro 2000.
Germany pressed for an equaliser, with Karim Adeyemi hitting the post with a thunderous shot. However, Portugal held on, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen denying them a late third goal through a brilliant double save.
Portugal will face the winner of Thursday’s semi-final between Spain and France in the final on Sunday, as they chase a second Nations League title following their 2019 triumph.
LND/BG
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