Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved age is just a number, scoring the decisive goal as Portugal defeated Germany 2-1 to reach the UEFA Nations League final their first victory over Die Mannschaft in 24 years.
Portugal 2-1 Germany
The 40-year-old legend, who had never beaten Germany in five previous attempts, became the oldest player ever to score against them, netting his 137th international goal to seal the win. His 68th-minute strike a clinical finish after Francisco Conceição’s equalizer sent Portugal into Sunday’s final, where they will face either Spain or France.
“We will enjoy this victory,” said Portugal coach Roberto Martínez. “After so long, we’ve beaten Germany. Tactically, we were brilliant, and the team’s commitment made the difference.”
Match Highlights
- Germany dominated early, with Diogo Costa making a stunning save to deny Leon Goretzka.
- Florian Wirtz broke the deadlock with a 48th-minute header off Joshua Kimmich’s cross.
- Conceição (63′) leveled the score, 24 years to the day after his father, Sérgio, scored a hat-trick in Portugal’s last win over Germany (2000).
- Ronaldo (68′) turned hero, slotting home the winner to end his personal hoodoo against Germany.
- Karim Adeyemi nearly equalized late, but his fierce strike crashed off the post.
Key Performances
- Vitinha (Portugal) – Fresh off his Champions League triumph with PSG, he dictated midfield play.
- Marc-André ter Stegen (Germany) – Made crucial saves to keep Germany in the game.
Portugal, 2019 Nations League champions, await the winner of Spain vs. France (Thursday) in Sunday’s final.
For Ronaldo, this was more than just a win it was redemption. After years of frustration against Germany, he finally conquered his nemesis, proving once again why he remains Portugal’s eternal talisman.