In Munich’s Arena, the Nations League semifinal between Germany and Portugal gained intensity at the 3rd minute of the second half when Florian Wirtz scored, giving the Germans the lead. The goal, reviewed by VAR, sparked complaints from the Portuguese, who claimed an offside by Woltemade. The match, which started at 4:10 PM on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, is still ongoing, with Germany pressing. A hailstorm before the game delayed the start by ten minutes but did not dampen the match’s intensity. The clash determines the tournament’s first finalist.
Germany took the field aiming to control midfield, while Portugal relied on Pedro Neto’s speed and Cristiano Ronaldo’s experience. The first half ended goalless, despite clear chances on both sides. Portugal’s goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, was crucial, saving shots from Woltemade and Goretzka. The Portuguese threatened with left-wing plays but failed to convert.
Wirtz’s goal shifted the game’s dynamics, boosting Germany’s confidence. The Munich Arena crowd, despite unstable weather, remains highly energetic. The match continues, with Portugal seeking an equalizer.
- Key moments so far:
- Hailstorm delays the game’s start by ten minutes.
- First half with few clear chances but notable saves by Diogo Costa.
- Wirtz’s goal at the 3rd minute of the second half, validated by VAR.
First half of tactical balance
The game began with Portugal exploiting speed on the left. At the 6th minute, Pedro Neto crossed for Cristiano Ronaldo, who shot weakly, making it easy for Ter Stegen. At the 10th minute, Neto tried again but shot over the bar. Germany responded with Goretzka, who shot at Diogo Costa at the 3rd minute, and Woltemade, stopped by the Portuguese goalkeeper at the 18th minute.
The match cooled after the initial 20 minutes. Both teams slowed down, focusing on possession. Bruno Fernandes took a hard foul from Wirtz at the 39th minute but recovered. Near the end of the first half, Wirtz attempted a cross-shot, saved by Diogo Costa. The break arrived with a scoreless draw, reflecting tactical balance.
Wirtz’s goal and VAR controversy
At the 3rd minute of the second half, Wirtz opened the scoring. After stealing the ball from Trincão, he passed to Kimmich, who returned it with a chipped pass. Wirtz headed it into the left corner, beating Diogo Costa. Portugal protested, citing an offside by Woltemade, who was involved in the play.
The referee, called by VAR, reviewed the play on the monitor. After analysis, the on-field decision was upheld, confirming the goal. The German crowd erupted, while the Portuguese showed frustration. The goal reignited the match, with Germany gaining offensive momentum.
Timeline of key moments
The match has been marked by high-intensity moments. Below are the most significant plays up to the 7th minute of the second half:
- 6’ 1st half: Pedro Neto crosses for Cristiano Ronaldo, who shoots weakly, saved by Ter Stegen.
- 18’ 1st half: Woltemade links with Pavlovic and shoots across, but Diogo Costa makes a great save.
- 20’ 1st half: Goretzka shoots first-time from the edge of the box, and Diogo Costa parries for a corner.
- 3’ 2nd half: Wirtz scores after a Kimmich pass, heading into the left corner.
- 5’ 2nd half: Referee reviews the goal via VAR and confirms, despite Portuguese protests.
Individual standouts in the clash
Wirtz has been Germany’s driving force. The midfielder, besides the goal, created dangerous plays in the first half, like the shot at the 42nd minute. His movement troubles Portugal’s defense. Goretzka also shines, with strength in midfield and attacking runs.
For Portugal, Pedro Neto is the main playmaker. His left-wing sprints generated the best chances in the first half. Cristiano Ronaldo, though yet to score, remains active, demanding attention from Germany’s defense. Diogo Costa, with crucial saves, keeps Portugal in the game.
Semifinal context
The Nations League brings together Europe’s top teams, and this semifinal pits two giants against each other. Germany, playing at home, aims to reclaim prominence in the tournament. Portugal, the current runner-up, relies on a mix of young talents and veterans. The winner will face the victor of Spain vs. France, who play tomorrow in Stuttgart.
The matchup has a history of balance. In the last five encounters, Germany won twice, Portugal twice, and one ended in a draw. The Munich Arena, with a capacity of 70,000, is packed despite the bad weather.
Factors influencing the game
The pre-match hailstorm disrupted team preparations. Goalkeepers, warming up, had to take cover. The pitch, though well-maintained, may be slippery, affecting play style.
- Observed tactical elements:
- Germany prioritizes possession and midfield triangles.
- Portugal exploits quick counterattacks, led by Pedro Neto and Nuno Mendes.
- Both teams have goalkeepers in top form, complicating finishes.
Nations League numbers
Tournament stats show balance between the teams. Germany averages 7.2 shots per game, matching Portugal. The Germans earn 4.6 corners per match, while Portugal has 6.1. Both teams stay disciplined, with averages of 1.4 and 1.8 yellow cards, respectively, and no red cards.
These figures highlight the matchup’s competitiveness. Germany aims to convert possession into goals, while Portugal bets on the efficiency of its quick plays.
Second-half pressure
With Wirtz’s goal, Germany gained confidence. The team is pressing Portugal, which is trying to regroup. Cristiano Ronaldo nearly equalized at the 1st minute of the second half but couldn’t reach Nuno Mendes’ cross. The match remains open, with both sides creating chances.
The German crowd keeps the support strong, while Portugal tries to neutralize the opponent’s momentum. Up to the 7th minute of the second half, Germany looks more aggressive, but Portugal has the tools to respond.
Match curiosities
- Munich Arena history: Germany has won 70% of its games at the stadium since 2005.
- Wirtz’s rise: The midfielder has scored 3 goals in his last 5 national team games.
- Ronaldo vs. Germany: CR7 has 4 goals in 6 matches against the Germans.
- Diogo Costa’s decisiveness: The goalkeeper made 12 saves in 4 Nations League games.
Expectations for the rest of the match
The game remains intense, with Germany holding the lead. Portugal, with its offensive capability, could strike back at any moment. The goalkeepers’ performances and finishing accuracy will be decisive. The semifinal promises more thrills until the final whistle.
