Portugal stunned hosts Germany 2-1 in a dramatic UEFA Nations League semi-final clash in Munich, ending a 25-year winless streak against Die Mannschaft and booking a spot in Sunday’s final against either Spain or France.
Florian Wirtz had put Germany in front early in the second half, nodding home Joshua Kimmich’s perfectly floated return pass in what looked to be a fitting celebration of Kimmich’s 100th cap. But Portugal had other plans — and their revival was sparked by a familiar family name.
Francisco Conceicao, son of former Portugal winger Sérgio Conceicao (who scored a hat-trick against Germany at Euro 2000), came off the bench to curl in a stunning 63rd-minute equaliser. It was Portugal’s first goal against Germany in a competitive match since 2012 — and one that changed the tempo entirely.
Five minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo, after spurning several earlier chances, tapped in from close range after brilliant work by Nuno Mendes and Bruno Fernandes. It was his 137th international goal — and perhaps one of his most meaningful in recent memory, sealing Portugal’s first victory over Germany in a major tournament since the turn of the century.
Germany pushed back with late pressure, including a rocket off the post from Karim Adeyemi and a double save from Marc-André ter Stegen, but the hosts fell short as Portugal expertly managed the final minutes.
