Germany and Portugal clash in the 2025 UEFA Nations League semi-finals after thrilling quarter-finals marked by numerous goals. The teams enter the match on different wavelengths. Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany ride a wave of success, unbeaten since their last loss to Spain in July 2024. Conversely, Roberto Martinez’s Portugal recently suffered a setback against Denmark in March 2025 but rebounded by winning the second leg of their quarter-final.
The German national team narrowly triumphed over Italy with a 5-4 victory in the quarterfinals, signaling a turning point under the leadership of Julian Nagelsmann. This moment offers them a chance to regain the sharp form they showcased during their triumphant runs in the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2017 Confederations Cup. Since clinching those titles, the team has struggled to deliver strong performances.
Nagelsmann has ushered in a new era with a successful generational shift, bringing in players aged 26 to 29, such as Tim Kleindienst, Maximilian Mittelstadt, and Niklas Fullkrug, who have seamlessly integrated into the squad. This shift in the core of the squad holds the promise of reviving Germany’s competitive edge, aiming to reverse the subpar performances that have lingered in recent years.
In contrast, the Portuguese national team presents a unique case. Roberto Martinez has successfully integrated young talents like Nuno Mendes, Rafael Leao, and Vitinha. Meanwhile, he retains seasoned stars Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes. This blend provides the team with exemplary balance. However, Martinez has yet to establish a clear game identity. Despite positive results, Portuguese fans remain skeptical of their overall play.
Germany lineup vs Portugal
Julian Nagelsmann leads the German national team with skill and determination. However, the upcoming UEFA Nations League semifinal poses a significant challenge due to key absentees. Germany will miss nine players, including Jamal Musiala, Yann Bisseck, and Kai Havertz. This roster gap requires tactical adjustments and forces a change in the lineup.
With all these absentees, Germany field a formation with several changes from previous matches: Marc Andre Ter Stegen; Waldemar Anton, Jonathan Tah, Robin Koch; Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Leon Goretzka, Maximilian Mittelstadt; Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sane; Nick Woltemade.
Portugal lineup vs Germany
Roberto Martinez may still be searching for a signature style, but he consistently delivers positive results. This performance has increased fan confidence. Furthermore, Martinez integrates promising young talents like Goncalo Inacio and Francisco Conceicao. Cristiano Ronaldo is also starting today against Germany. This blend of youth and experience excites fans about another possible UEFA Nations League title.
Portugal’s starting lineup will be: Diogo Costa; Joao Neves, Ruben Dias, Goncalo Inacio, Nuno Mendes; Ruben Neves, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva; Francisco Trincao, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.