Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Nations League match.
The first UEFA Nations League finalist will be decided at the Allianz Arena, where Germany take on Portugal in a high-stakes semi-final clash. The same ground witnessed Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League triumph just days ago – and several of the French club's stars will now be in action for the Portuguese national team.
Germany
Germany come into the match shorthanded. Key attacking figures Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz remain sidelined with long-term injuries, and the defensive line has taken further hits with both Nico Schlotterbeck and Antonio Rüdiger ruled out. Barcelona keeper Marc-André ter Stegen has returned from a serious knee injury and made the squad, but it’s unclear whether he will start. Centre-back Yann Aurel Bisseck, who made his debut in the second leg of the quarter-final against Italy, was not included.
Portugal
Portugal boss Roberto Martínez may have a smaller talent pool than his German counterpart, but he boasts three freshly crowned Champions League winners in his squad — Nuno Mendes, João Neves, and Vitinha Machado. All three played crucial roles in Paris Saint-Germain’s final victory, with Vitinha particularly impressive, delivering a brilliant assist for Désiré Doué’s goal. They’re expected to start, while Nuno Tavares was dropped, leaving Nuno Mendes unchallenged at left-back.
Germany vs Portugal Prediction
The midfield battle is set to be pivotal, and on paper Portugal match up well against a depleted German side. Their last head-to-head was a thrilling 4:2 win for Germany at Euro 2020, but this encounter feels far more even, especially given the absences in the German camp. What we can expect with confidence is goals. Both teams delivered high-scoring ties in the quarter-finals — Germany edged Italy (2:1) before a thrilling 3:3 draw, while Portugal lost the first leg (0:1) before thumping Denmark (5:2) in the return.
