Germany secured their first-ever appearance in the UEFA Nations League finals after a thrilling quarter-final match in Dortmund. Despite trailing 3-0 at half-time, Italy made a stunning comeback in the second period to reduce the deficit but ultimately fell short.
Joshua Kimmich set up both of Germany’s goals, including a penalty that sealed the win. Tim Kleindienst scored twice for Germany in the first half, with Musiala also netting from a corner kick.
Italy responded with four minutes after the restart, as Moise Kean reduced the deficit to 3-2. However, Giacomo Raspadori’s late penalty sealed Italy’s fate, and Germany held on to secure their place in the finals.
The win marks a significant milestone for Germany under coach Julian Nagelsmann, who has guided his team to the top of the Nations League table. The team will host the final four in June, providing them with a chance to win silverware on home soil.
“We played almost exclusively backwards and through the middle in the second half,” Nagelsmann said. “The big difference was that we adjusted our strategy after halftime.”
Germany’s victory extends their unbeaten run against Italy to eight matches, including six wins. The team has also scored in 20 of their last 22 Nations League matches.
Source: https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/news/0297-1d596b55b9a2-e41c142baf1b-1000–nations-league-quarter-finals-germany-resist-italy-rally