Ronaldo explodes, Portugal eliminates host Germany in Nations League

(NLDO) – "Little general" Francisco Conceicao and Cristiano Ronaldo both scored, helping Portugal eliminate host Germany in the Nations League semi-final in Munich.

The surprising ending of the Nations League semi-final clash at the Allianz Arena took many fans by surprise, but it was a fair result as the better and more determined team won.

Unfortunately for the hosts Germany, who had an unbeaten campaign leading up to the semi-final, they fell at a crucial hurdle right before the finish line.

Rookie Nick Woltemade (11) failed to make any impression on his debut day.

Taking to the field with a squad missing many key positions, coach Julian Nagelsmann could only hope for the brilliance of the young players. More than 60,000 spectators at the Allianz Arena also cheered for the home team throughout the match, creating an unprecedentedly exciting and bustling atmosphere.

Pedro Neto in Portugal's counter-attack

Portugal, with a strong squad, played no less competitively than host Germany, if not somewhat overwhelmingly thanks to a squad of experienced stars.

Unfortunately, despite creating some clear opportunities, the visiting team Portugal with 40-year-old star Cristiano Ronaldo could not find a way into the goal of the German "tank".

Ronaldo was active in the away team's attack

The match at the Allianz Arena only really heated up after the half-time break, first with Florian Wirtz's opening goal for Germany in the 48th minute.

The Portuguese players reacted angrily when they thought the German player was offside. However, after consulting VAR, the referee awarded the goal to the home team.

Florian Wirtz is a force to be reckoned with.

and scored the opening goal for Germany

In the midst of mounting difficulties, Portugal's mettle was brought into play, especially after coach Roberto Martinez made decisive changes in personnel.

In the 63rd minute, substitute Francisco Conceicao dribbled from nearly half the field and then made a spectacular curling shot, helping Portugal equalize 1-1.

Francisco Conceicao equalizes 1-1 for Portugal

Conceicao in the arms of his teammates

The excitement helped Portugal continue to make history. Just 5 minutes later, from Bruno Fernandes' delicate pass, Nuno Mendes rushed up to receive the ball and crossed accurately, creating conditions for Ronaldo to tap the ball into the empty net.

This is the superstar's 137th goal for the Portuguese team, also the 937th goal of his career.

Ronaldo scored the decisive goal

The 40-year-old striker was excited after scoring a goal.

Portugal protected their advantage, including proactive defense and counter-attacking when the opportunity arose.

Despite their efforts, Germany could not find another goal and had to accept a 1-2 defeat at home, giving the right to play in the Nations League final to Portugal.

Portugal breaks the "curse" of losing all 5 matches against Germany

Ronaldo and his teammates' next opponent is the winner of the remaining semi-final between France and Spain.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/ronaldo-bung-no-bo-dao-nha-loai-chu-nha-duc-o-nations-league-196250605064051605.htm