Legend Unleashed: Ronaldo Strikes as Portugal Defeats Germany for the First Time

📰 Match Report — Germany 1-2 Portugal | June 4, 2025 — Nations League Semi-final

Portugal stunned the footballing world with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Germany in Munich, qualifying for the UEFA Nations League final. The match marked a historic milestone for Cristiano Ronaldo, who finally earned his first career win against Germany after five previous defeats — a personal triumph nearly 20 years in the making.

⚽ Match Summary

Germany struck first just after halftime with a powerful header from Florian Wirtz (48’), initially disallowed but confirmed after a lengthy VAR check.

But Portugal responded with brilliance. Super-sub Francisco Conceição equalized in the 63rd minute with a stunning 25-meter strike shortly after coming off the bench. Just five minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo capitalized on a low cross from Nuno Mendes to score the match-winner (68’), securing Portugal’s place in the final.

The Allianz Arena erupted — or rather fell silent — as the Portuguese celebrated a famous win on German soil.

📊 Key Match Stats

Stat	Germany 🇩🇪	Portugal 🇵🇹
Possession	55%	45%
Shots (on target)	9 (5)	17 (6)
Clear chances	1	3
Corners	3	4
Yellow cards	3	2

🌟 Player Ratings & Highlights

Cristiano Ronaldo (7.9/10) – Scored his 137th international goal, the winner. Leader. Clutch. Historic.
Francisco Conceição (8.2/10) – Game-changer off the bench. Energy, creativity, and a stunning goal.
Nuno Mendes (7.9/10) – Excellent delivery for Ronaldo’s goal and solid defensively.
Vitinha (7.5/10) – Entered late but brought stability and control in midfield.
Bruno Fernandes (7.1/10) – Visibly emotional post-match. Solid two-way contribution.

🔄 Key Substitutions

58′ – Francisco Conceição, Vitinha, and Nélson Semedo came on to reshape Portugal’s rhythm.
84′ – Ronaldo was subbed off to a standing ovation, replaced by João Palhinha.