Germany vs. Portugal: UEFA Nations League Semifinal Preview

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The UEFA Nations League has reached the semifinal stage, setting up a significant match between Portugal and Germany at the Allianz Arena to decide who advances to the final. Under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, Germany has experienced a revival, remaining undefeated in their last eight fixtures since their Euro exit at the hands of Spain. A win against Portugal would mark a positive step in Germany`s efforts to rediscover their form and aim for contention among global football powers.

Despite securing their semifinal spot with a 5-2 victory over Denmark, Portugal`s defense has shown vulnerabilities, having conceded goals in four of their last five matches. This offers Germany promising prospects for finding the net.

Here are the key aspects of the match, including viewing information:

Note: Kickoff for the original match was delayed by 10 minutes due to hail at the Allianz Arena.

Match Details & Odds

  • Date: Wednesday, June 4
  • Time: 3 p.m. ET
  • Location: Allianz Arena — Munich, Germany
  • TV Broadcast: FS1
  • Live Stream: Fubo
  • Match Odds: Germany -110; Draw +270; Portugal +280

Recent Encounter

Germany and Portugal last faced each other during the Euros in 2021 in a memorable contest. Germany took a 2-1 lead in the first half and extended their advantage after the break with goals from Kai Havertz and Robin Gosens, securing a 4-2 victory. This match notably exposed the potential susceptibility of Portugal`s defense.

Betting Insight

Florian Wirtz to have 2+ shots on target (+290): Regardless of any ongoing transfer speculation, Florian Wirtz`s immediate focus is on helping Germany reach the Nations League final. As a central figure in Germany`s attacking strategy, Wirtz is expected to have ample opportunities to shoot against the Portuguese defense. Given his capability to strike from various positions on the field and Germany`s current situation regarding in-form central strikers, betting on Wirtz to register multiple shots on target appears a reasonable prospect.

Anticipated 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

Key Player Spotlight

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal: Discussions persist regarding Cristiano Ronaldo`s role and whether he should continue to start for Portugal. With a wealth of attacking options like Diogo Jota, Gonçalo Ramos, and Pedro Neto, coach Roberto Martinez has the flexibility to deploy a more dynamic system. However, Ronaldo`s presence in the starting lineup often influences Portugal`s overall style. Despite the debate, Ronaldo has maintained his goal-scoring touch, finding the net four times in his last five international appearances. Notably, Portugal drew one and lost one of the two matches in this recent sequence where he failed to score. Germany`s ability to neutralize Ronaldo could be decisive for securing a victory.

Match Prediction

Germany`s squad depth and Julian Nagelsmann`s tactical flexibility are expected to be key factors. Even if Portugal manages to score first, Germany possesses the quality and attacking options to overcome the deficit and secure a win. With Florian Wirtz in good form and multiple players capable of posing a threat, Germany is well-positioned to book their place in the Nations League final. Predicted Score: Germany 3, Portugal 2.

Heath Buttersworth
Heath Buttersworth

Heath Buttersworth is a seasoned sports journalist based in Bristol, England. Since 2012, he has been covering various sports, particularly focusing on Formula 1 and UFC events.

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