The UEFA Nations League has reached the semifinal stage, presenting a significant matchup between Portugal and Germany at the Allianz Arena. Both nations are competing for a coveted spot in the final.
Under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, Germany has shown considerable improvement. The team is currently on an impressive run, remaining undefeated in their last eight matches since being eliminated from the Euros by Spain. For Germany, securing a victory against Portugal is a vital step towards rebuilding form and re-establishing themselves as serious contenders on the international stage, including for the World Cup.
Although Portugal achieved a decisive 5-2 win over Denmark to advance to this phase, their defense has appeared vulnerable, having allowed goals in four of their most recent five fixtures. This defensive record suggests that Germany will likely find opportunities to score.
Note: Kickoff for the match was initially delayed by 10 minutes due to hail at the Allianz Arena.
Match Details and Viewing Information
- Date: Wednesday, June 4
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
- TV: FS1
- Live stream: Fubo
- Odds: Germany -110; Draw +270; Portugal +280
Last Encounter
Germany and Portugal last met during the Euro 2021 tournament in a high-scoring affair. Germany emerged victorious with a 4-2 win. They established a 2-1 lead in the first half and extended their advantage with goals from Kai Havertz and Robin Gosens after the break. This previous encounter highlighted potential defensive frailties in the Portuguese side.
Betting Tip
Florian Wirtz to have 2+ shots on target (+290): Florian Wirtz is a central figure in Germany`s attacking setup and is expected to be heavily involved. Given Portugal`s recent defensive record and Wirtz`s capability to shoot from various positions, coupled with Germany not having a single dominant in-form striker, betting on Wirtz to register two or more shots on target appears promising.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Germany: Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Robin Gosens, Robin Koch, Jonathan Tah, Joshua Kimmich, Lein Goretzka, Pascal Gross, Serge Gnabry, Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sane, Niclas Fullkrug
Portugal: Diogo Costa, Nuno Mendes, Goncalo Inacio, Ruben Dias, Diogo Dalot, Vitinha, Joao Neves, Rafael Leao, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo
Player to Watch
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal: There is ongoing discussion about whether Cristiano Ronaldo should remain a guaranteed starter for Portugal, especially given the attacking depth provided by players like Diogo Jota, Gonçalo Ramos, and Pedro Neto. While Ronaldo continues to score (four goals in his last five Portugal appearances), his presence influences Portugal`s tactical approach. Notably, Portugal drew and lost the two recent matches where Ronaldo did not find the net. Germany`s strategy to secure victory may significantly rely on their ability to neutralize his threat.
Prediction
Germany is predicted to win this semifinal match. Julian Nagelsmann`s tactical flexibility and the depth of the German squad are expected to play a crucial role. Even if Portugal manages to score first, Germany has sufficient attacking quality, spearheaded by players like the in-form Wirtz, to mount a comeback and secure their place in the Nations League final.
Predicted Score: Germany 3, Portugal 2
