In a thrilling Nations League semi-final match, Portugal came from behind to beat Germany 2-1, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring his 137th international goal to seal the win and send his team to the final.
The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating scoring opportunities.
Germany dominated the early stages, forcing Diogo Costa into two excellent saves, including a stunning stop down low to his left to tip Leon Goretzka’s driven effort around the post.
Just after half-time, Ronaldo had a chance to open the scoring, stretching to reach Nuno Mendes’ superb cross, but he could only divert the ball wide.
However, Germany capitalized on the missed opportunity, taking the lead through Florian Wirtz’s smart header, which came seconds after Ronaldo’s missed chance.
Portugal’s fortunes changed when Francisco Conceicao came off the bench and equalized with a stunning, curling drive from range.
The match-winning goal came in the dying minutes of the game, courtesy of Ronaldo’s brilliance, as he scored his 137th international goal for Portugal.
The goal was the former Real Madrid forward’s seventh goal in the competition.
The Portuguese team was denied a third goal by a brilliant Marc-Andre ter Stegen double save, denying both Diogo Jota and Conceicao.
This historic victory marked Portugal’s first win over Germany in 25 years, with Ronaldo playing a pivotal role in the team’s success.
The last time Portugal beat Germany in a competitive game was the Euro 2000, when Conceicao’s father Sergio scored a hat-trick in a 3-0 win.
The win also means that Portugal will appear in the Nations League final for the second time, following their triumph in the inaugural edition in 2019.
Portugal’s victory sets up a mouth-watering final against the winner of the other semi-final match which is between France and defending champions Spain.
With Ronaldo leading the charge, Portugal will be looking to bring home the trophy and add to their growing list of accolades.
