Video: Cristiano Ronaldo scores key goal for Portugal in UEFA Nations League semifinals vs Germany

Portugal and Germany faced off in the semifinals of the 2025 UEFA Nations League, battling for a spot in Sunday’s final against either Spain or France. The Germans took a 1-0 lead through a goal by Florian Wirtz, but in the blink of an eye, Francisco Conceicao and Cristiano Ronaldo turned the score around.

Both teams reached this stage after dominating their respective groups and overcoming tough challenges in the quarterfinals. In March, Germany defeated Italy with a 5-4 aggregate score, while Portugal eliminated Denmark 5-3 on aggregate, turning the series around after losing the first leg.

On Wednesday, they faced off at Allianz Arena, the same venue that hosted the UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan just a few days ago. During the first 45 minutes, the match was evenly balanced, with both teams feeling each other out and trying to identify weaknesses, but without managing to cause damage.

That all changed dramatically after halftime. Just three minutes into the second half, Joshua Kimmich delivered a beautiful assist to Florian Wirtz, who finished with a delicate header inside the box that tucked in by the post. Portuguese players protested a possible obstruction by Nick Woltemade—who appeared to be offside—on Ruben Dias, but referee Slavko Vincic allowed the goal to stand.

Portugal’s response

Trailing 1-0 on the road and with time ticking away, the outlook didn’t seem favorable for Portugal. But in that context, they found strength and discovered the path to a comeback. In the 63rd minute, Francisco Conceicao picked up the ball just past the halfway line and began a frenetic run that carried him to the edge of the box. Once there, the winger unleashed a stunning left-footed strike that beat goalkeeper Ter Stegen and became the equalizer.

And without giving Germany a moment to recover, Roberto Martinez’s team struck again. Just five minutes after Conceicao’s goal, Nuno Mendes led another Portugal attack, drove into the box, and set up Cristiano Ronaldo, who only had to tap the ball in to complete the comeback.

What’s next for Portugal?

With their place secured in Sunday’s 2025 UEFA Nations League final at Munich Arena, Portugal will benefit from having one extra day of rest compared to their next opponent. On Thursday afternoon, at MHPArena in Stuttgart, France and Spain will face off to determine the other finalist.