The UEFA Nations League Finals will take place from June 4 to 8 in Germany. During this event, Germany will host four football powerhouses battling for the title. The host nation will face three former winners of the competition: Portugal, France, and Spain. Read all about it in this article.
First Semi-Final: Germany vs Portugal
This match takes place on Wednesday, June 4 at the Allianz Arena, Munich.
Germany
- Form: Under Julian Nagelsmann, Germany is in excellent form, unbeaten in their last eight matches. They had a steady 2024, with only one loss after extra time against Spain at the EUROs. They went undefeated in the Nations League group stage and defeated Italy 5-4 on aggregate in the quarterfinals.
- History: Germany holds a historical advantage, with five consecutive wins over Portugal since 2006. This includes victories at World Cups and EUROs. Portugal hasn’t beaten Germany since EURO 2000 and has conceded eight goals in the last two encounters.
- Chances: As hosts in Munich, Germany are considered slight favorites. Their attacking prowess is a major asset. They are determined to win their first Nations League title and restore pride in German football after 2014. However, injuries are testing the squad’s depth.
- Team News: Germany is dealing with significant injuries in defense, including Antonio Rüdiger, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Yann Bisseck. Key attackers such as Jamal Musiala, Tim Kleindienst, and Kai Havertz are also out. The good news is the return of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen. Joshua Kimmich will earn his 100th cap and anchors the team. Florian Wirtz carries the creative load.
Portugal
- Form: After an inconsistent EURO 2024, Portugal found their rhythm in the Nations League group stage, going unbeaten. Under Roberto Martinez, they have a balanced and dangerous team.
- History: Portugal has a poor recent record against Germany, with five straight losses since 2006. They haven’t beaten Germany since EURO 2000 and have conceded many goals in recent clashes.
- Chances: Despite their historical disadvantage, the depth of their squad and the presence of experienced attackers make them dangerous. They are eager to break the bad streak against Germany.
- Team News: Portugal travels to Munich with a fully fit squad and no reported injuries. Coach Roberto Martinez has access to all his attacking options. The inclusion of 18-year-old sensation Rodrigo Mora adds an extra dimension. The attack is led by 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s top scorer this campaign with six goals in seven matches. He is supported by the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Rafael Leão.
Second Semi-Final: Spain vs France
This match will be played on Thursday, June 5 in Stuttgart.
Spain
- Form: Spain is considered the dominant force in European men’s football over the past 12 months. They are the reigning Nations League and European champions. Luis de la Fuente’s team has won 14 of their last 15 matches. In the Nations League, they survived a dramatic quarterfinal against the Netherlands, winning on penalties.
- History: Spain and France have met frequently in recent crucial matches. Spain won the EURO 2024 semi-final 2-1 and the 2023 Nations League final, while France won the 2021 edition by defeating Spain.
- Chances: Spain wants to continue their dominant run and become the first team to win the Nations League twice. Coach Luis de la Fuente places great importance on the tournament and brings out the best in less experienced players. Spain’s fast, technical play through wingers like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams is a major weapon. Deschamps has called Spain “the best team in Europe and probably the best in the world.”
- Team News: Four Olympic champions have been called up. Midfielder Fabián Ruiz is expected to start despite his appearance in the Champions League final. Lamine Yamal is seen as a key figure. Isco returns after a six-year absence following a strong season. Notable absentees for Spain include Rodri, Carvajal, Laporte, Ayoze Pérez, and Ferran Torres.
France
- Form: France enters the final international cycle under Didier Deschamps. This generation wants to win more trophies. They reached the semi-finals by beating Croatia on penalties, coming back from a 2-0 deficit. They showed solidity and tactical discipline.
- History: France has a recent rivalry with Spain, including the 2021 Nations League final (won by France) and the EURO 2024 semi-final (won by Spain). They aim to avenge their EURO defeat.
- Chances: France wants to reverse their fortunes after the EURO 2024 loss. They boast a powerful attack led by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, both in top form. Deschamps acknowledges Spain’s quality and freshness but insists France won’t approach the match “with a white flag.”
- Team News: Michael Olise may play a key role in unlocking attacking potential. The biggest concern is the absence of their three preferred central defenders: William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and Jules Koundé are all out. Midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is also injured. Rayan Cherki could make his debut.
The winners of both semi-finals will face off in the final on Sunday, June 8 in Munich. The losers will play for third place earlier that day in Stuttgart.
Magic Betting live
Want to make these matches even more exciting? Check out the Magic Betting App or visit www.magicbetting.be for the best online sports betting options. Don’t forget to look into the various promotional offers. Take your shot and win!
