Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal to a 2-1 victory over Germany on Wednesday in Munich, securing a place in the UEFA Nations League final. His 68th-minute goal not only sealed the win but also ended his winless run against the Germans.

Germany took the lead shortly after halftime through Florian Wirtz, who initiated and completed a creative move in the 48th minute. The midfielder finished the play with a well-placed header after a one-two exchange with Captain Joshua Kimmich.

Portugal responded through Francisco Conceição, who equalised in the 60th minute. The forward ran over 30 metres from midfield, evaded Robin Gosens with a quick feint, and curled a powerful shot beyond goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Ronaldo eventually capitalised on a low cross from Nuno Mendes, after missing two earlier opportunities, tapping in from close range to score his 137th international goal in 219 appearances. The goal also marked Portugal’s first-ever win over Germany after five consecutive defeats.

The match kicked off 10 minutes late due to a storm that left hailstones on the pitch. Despite a slow start from both sides, Germany appeared unsettled, particularly in possession. Aleksandar Pavlović misplaced several passes, while Portugal pressed high, forcing errors from defender Jonathan Tah.

Ter Stegen, making his return for Germany since September 2024, denied Ronaldo an early opener. Meanwhile, debutant Nick Woltemade tested Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa with a low drive, but the effort was saved.

Portugal, with four players returning from Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final, showed composure in the second half. Manager Roberto Martinez made impactful substitutions that shifted the momentum in Portugal’s favour.

Germany’s Karim Adeyemi came close to equalising late in the match, hitting the crossbar with eight minutes left. However, Portugal held on to their lead and will now face either Spain or France in Sunday’s final, also in Munich.

Germany, under coach Julian Nagelsmann, will compete in the third-place match in Stuttgart. The defeat marks only their second loss in 18 matches.