Ronaldo Rolls Back Years, Portugal Stun Germany

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The 40-year-old scores again as Portugal reach the Nations League final for the second time.

Portugal Break Longstanding German Hoodoo

Cristiano Ronaldo delivered yet another decisive moment on Wednesday night, scoring the winner in Portugal’s 2-1 comeback victory over Germany to book a place in the UEFA Nations League final. His 137th international goal came five minutes after Francisco Conceição’s equaliser, completing a dramatic turnaround in Munich.

The result marks Portugal’s first win over Germany in 24 years, the last coming at Euro 2000 — a game remembered for a Sergio Conceição hat-trick. On this occasion, it was Sergio’s son Francisco who played a key role, highlighting the symbolic passing of a generational baton.

Portugal will now face either Spain or France in Sunday’s final, aiming to reclaim the title they won in the inaugural edition of the competition in 2019.

Costa the Early Hero

Germany had the better of the first half, pressing high and creating chances, but Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa stood firm. The Porto shot-stopper was in inspired form, making key early saves from Leon Goretzka and Nick Woltemade before denying Goretzka again with a sharp low stop.

Despite their dominance, Germany couldn’t find a breakthrough before half-time — largely thanks to Costa’s quick reflexes and assured positioning.

Second Half Sparks Into Life

Germany took a deserved lead in the 48th minute, Florian Wirtz nodding in from close range after a clever lofted assist from Joshua Kimmich. But the goal seemed to awaken Portugal, and Roberto Martínez’s side gradually imposed themselves.

Conceição, introduced from the bench, levelled the match in the 63rd minute, arriving at the far post to turn in a low cross. Then, with the German defence momentarily disorganised, Nuno Mendes burst forward and found Ronaldo for a simple tap-in — a typically clinical finish from the Portugal captain.

Ronaldo’s Longevity, Portugal’s Composure

Ronaldo’s decisive goal underscored not only his longevity but his continued value in high-stakes fixtures. While he now plays a reduced club role, his instincts and leadership remain sharp at international level. The 40-year-old celebrated with his teammates as Portugal completed a landmark win — their first over Germany this century.

Head coach Roberto Martínez praised both the tactical application and mental resilience of his squad. “Tactically we were exceptional and our commitment helped... it was a team victory,” he said.

Germany Left to Reflect

For Germany, the loss was a blow on what should have been a milestone evening for captain Joshua Kimmich, earning his 100th cap. After a bright start and a 1-0 lead, the hosts faded as Portugal gained control. Karim Adeyemi struck the post late on, and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen had to make two sharp saves to prevent a third.

Kimmich didn’t hold back in his assessment. “The defeat is absolutely deserved... If we're not at 100%, we can't beat a top European team,” he said post-match.

Main Takeaways

• Ronaldo scores again at 40 years old
  
  

• Portugal defeat Germany for first time since 2000
  
  

• Conceição scores in echo of his father's feat
  
  

Did you know?

Ronaldo has now scored 137 goals in 212 appearances for Portugal