In a thrilling night of international football, Germany and Spain both clinched dramatic victories to advance to the Nations League finals, while France staged a remarkable comeback to join them in the semi-finals. The matches were filled with unforgettable moments, from quick-thinking ball boys to nail-biting penalty shootouts.
Germany Edges Past Italy in a Goal-Filled Thriller
Germany booked their place in the Nations League finals after a rollercoaster 5-4 aggregate win over Italy, despite a spirited second-leg comeback from the Azzurri. The match in Dortmund saw Germany take a commanding 3-0 lead by halftime, with Joshua Kimmich opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the 30th minute. Jamal Musiala doubled the advantage just six minutes later, capitalizing on a quick corner kick that caught Italy off guard. The goal was set up by a swift ball delivery from 15-year-old ball boy Noel Urbaniack, who became an unlikely hero and was later rewarded with a signed football from the German team.
Tim Kleindienst added a third for Germany just before the break, but Italy fought back in the second half. Former Everton striker Moise Kean scored twice, and Giacomo Raspadori converted a 95th-minute penalty to level the second leg 3-3. However, it wasn’t enough to overturn Germany’s aggregate lead, sending the hosts through to the finals they will host in June.
Spain Triumphs in Penalty Drama Against the Netherlands
Spain secured their spot in the semi-finals after a breathtaking 3-3 draw with the Netherlands, which ended 5-5 on aggregate, with the Spanish side prevailing in a tense penalty shootout. The match was a showcase of end-to-end action, with Spain taking an early lead through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty after Jan Paul van Hecke fouled him in the box. Memphis Depay leveled the score with a penalty of his own, but Oyarzabal restored Spain’s lead with a header in the 67th minute.
The Netherlands fought back, with Ian Maatsen’s powerful strike forcing extra time. Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal put Spain ahead again with a stunning goal, only for Xavi Simons to equalize from the penalty spot. In the shootout, Spain’s Unai Simon saved Donyell Malen’s penalty, allowing Pedri to score the decisive spot-kick and send Spain through.
France Completes Stunning Comeback Against Croatia
France staged a remarkable turnaround to reach the Nations League finals, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Croatia 5-4 on penalties after a 2-0 second-leg victory. The hosts dominated the match at the Stade de France, with Michael Olise breaking the deadlock early in the second half. Ousmane Dembele sealed the comeback with a goal 10 minutes from time, sending the tie into extra time.
Croatia failed to register a single shot on target in 120 minutes, and France’s Mike Maignan became the hero in the shootout, making two crucial saves. Dayot Upamecano scored the winning penalty, setting up a semi-final clash with Spain.
