In a series of gripping international encounters in Nations league Quarter-Final, Germany, Croatia, and Spain emerged with narrow advantages in their respective matches, setting the stage for tense second-leg showdowns.
Germany Edges Italy in Hard-Fought Contest
Germany secured a 2-1 victory over Italy in a tightly contested match, ending Italy’s five-match unbeaten home run against the Germans. Sandro Tonali opened the scoring for Italy with a composed finish after Jonathan Tah’s clearance fell kindly to him. However, Germany responded strongly, with Leon Goretzka coming close to equalizing twice before the break. Tim Kleindienst, a halftime substitute, leveled the score early in the second half with a precise header from Joshua Kimmich’s delivery. Goretzka then completed the turnaround with 14 minutes remaining, heading in another Kimmich cross to seal the win. Italy pushed hard for an equalizer, with Moise Kean and Giacomo Raspadori threatening, but Germany’s Oliver Baumann made crucial saves to preserve the lead. The second leg in Dortmund promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the winners set to face Denmark or Portugal in the semifinals.
Croatia Stuns France with First-Leg Dominance
Croatia delivered a commanding performance to defeat France 2-0 in the first leg of their Nations League quarter-final clash. Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic scored first-half goals to put Zlatko Dalic’s side in control. Budimir’s opener marked the fourth headed goal France have conceded in their last three games, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. Didier Deschamps admitted France were second best but remains confident of overturning the deficit in the return leg. Croatia, however, will aim to maintain their advantage and advance to face either Spain or the Netherlands in the semifinals.
Spain Salvages Draw Against Netherlands in Dramatic Fashion
Spain extended their unbeaten run to 17 matches with a dramatic 2-2 draw against the Netherlands. Nico Williams gave Spain an early lead after capitalizing on a defensive error by Dutch full-back Jorrel Hato. Cody Gakpo equalized for the Netherlands with a powerful strike, and Tijjani Reijnders put the hosts ahead early in the second half. However, Hato’s red card for a challenge on Mikel Oyarzabal turned the tide, and Mikel Merino’s late goal ensured Spain left with a draw. The second leg in Valencia will decide who advances to face either Croatia or France in the semifinals.
These matches have set the stage for thrilling second-leg encounters, with Germany, Croatia, and Spain holding slight advantages as they aim to secure their places in the semifinals. Football fans can expect more drama and excitement as these high-stakes ties reach their conclusion.
