What happens if Portugal win, lose or tie vs Germany today in 2025 UEFA Nations League semifinals?

After an expected group stage performance of the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League, the quarter-finals delivered the excitement. The game Portugal vs. Denmark clash featured eight goals. Meanwhile, the game Italy vs. Germany clash saw nine goals scored. Despite both series being tightly contested, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will now face Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany in the semifinal.

On the one hand, Portugal continue to face criticism for their lack of a clear playing identity. However, the results prove otherwise. Under Cristiano Ronaldo’s leadership, the team has progressed steadily in the Nations League. The veteran striker has already scored six goals in the tournament. As a result, he is just three goals behind Viktor Gyokeres, the current top scorer.

On the other hand, Germany will approach the semifinal with a clear objective: reach the final and win the Nations League. A title would end their trophy drought, which dates back to 2017. Despite missing nine players, Julian Nagelsmann has built a competitive and balanced roster. His team can challenge any national side in Europe. For that reason, Germany will stay focused on a direct path to the final.

What happens if Portugal beat Germany?

If Portugal defeat Germany, they will reach their second final in UEFA Nations League history. With a win in the final game, they would become the tournament’s most successful team, securing two titles. This would also strengthen Cristiano Ronaldo’s international legacy, as he would claim his third trophy with the national team. However, they must wait for the outcome of the Spain vs. France semifinal on Thursday, June 5, to learn their opponent for the final on June 8.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Marcel Halstenberg of Germany during the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Group F match between Portugal and Germany at Football Arena Munich on June 19, 2021 in Munich, Germany.

What happens if Portugal and Germany tie?

In case Portugal and Germany draw in regular time, the match will go to extra time, which includes two 15-minute halves. During that stretch, both teams will push to break the deadlock. If neither side scores, the game will head to a penalty shootout. There, Germany could hold a slight edge thanks to their veteran presence, while Portugal will rely on their younger talent.

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Cristiano Ronaldo headlines Portugal’s squad for 2025 UEFA Nations League finals

What happens if Portugal lose to Germany?

A defeat for Portugal would give Germany an impressive opportunity to reach their first UEFA Nations League final. The opponent would remain unknown until June 5th, but reaching the final would already mark a major success for Julian Nagelsmann. His work with the national team has been demanding. Expectations are high because fans still compare everything to the 2014 FIFA World Cup triumph. That golden era continues to set the bar.

Germany could achieve this milestone without three key players: Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, and Antonio Rudiger. Even so, the final will bring a serious challenge. Whether it is France or Spain, both teams know how to win this tournament. They also retain much of the core that helped them lift the trophy before.