Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the European Under-21 Championship match.
The second semi-final of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship features a clash between two neighbouring nations—this time connected by land—both known for their elite footballing infrastructure and player development systems.
Germany U21
Both Germany U21 and France U21 progressed from the quarter-finals with 3:2 victories, but Germany U21 required two periods of extra time and a significant advantage after Italy U21 were reduced to nine players late in the second half. The Germans capitalised almost immediately on the first dismissal, scoring in the 87th minute. However, the second red card seemed to galvanise Italy U21, who managed to equalise during a late surge. Navigating nearly 30 additional minutes proved demanding, but Merlin Röhl eventually delivered the decisive goal in the 117th minute.
France U21
France U21 managed to avoid extra time. They entered the match as clear favourites against Denmark U21, who were considered significant underdogs. Still, it was not a straightforward affair—France U21 found themselves trailing after conceding a second goal in the 49th minute. However, late efforts from Quentin Merlin and Mathys Tel, who scored within two minutes of each other near the end of regulation time, secured their passage to the semi-finals.
Germany U21 vs France U21 Prediction
Germany U21 and France U21 appear evenly matched, and the balance between the two teams makes predicting the result a risky proposition. What is more apparent is the potential for goals in this encounter. Germany U21 have seen Total Over in all four of their tournament fixtures, while France U21 have done so in their last three. That’s the trend we’re backing here.
