In a night of high-octane football action, Portugal surged past Denmark with a 5-3 aggregate victory to secure their spot in the UEFA Nations League semifinals. The second leg in Lisbon was a rollercoaster, ending 5-2 after extra time, thanks to the electrifying performance of substitute Francisco Trincao.
Trincao’s Heroics Spark Portugal’s Victory
Cristiano Ronaldo had an uncharacteristic miss from the penalty spot early on but redeemed himself by scoring a crucial goal, capitalizing on a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel tipped Bruno Fernandes’ shot onto the post. Denmark’s Christian Eriksen equalized in the 76th minute, tapping in a close-range effort that looked to shift the momentum.
As the match edged towards extra time, Trincao made an immediate impact off the bench. His clinical finish after Mendes’ clever assist restored Portugal’s lead. Just a minute into extra time, Trincao struck again, drilling the ball into the bottom corner to put Portugal firmly in control. Goncalo Ramos sealed the victory with a fifth goal, setting up a semifinal showdown with Germany in Munich on June 4.
Germany Fends Off Italy’s Late Surge
In Dortmund, Germany managed to hold off a spirited Italy, advancing with a 5-4 aggregate score after a 3-3 draw. Joshua Kimmich opened the scoring with a confident penalty and was instrumental in a bizarre second goal. When Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma left his post to protest a decision, Kimmich’s quick thinking led to Jamal Musiala scoring into an empty net from a swiftly taken corner.
Tim Kleindienst added a third goal for Germany just before halftime. However, Italy’s Moise Kean ignited hopes of a comeback with two rapid goals in the second half. Giacomo Raspadori’s injury-time penalty leveled the match on the night, but Germany’s first-leg advantage ensured their progression.
Spain Sets Up Semifinal with France After Penalty Shootout Drama
Spain edged out the Netherlands 5-4 in a nail-biting penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw in Valencia. Mikel Oyarzabal’s early penalty was canceled out by Memphis Depay’s spot-kick. Oyarzabal struck again, but Ian Maatsen’s powerful shot forced extra time. Lamine Yamal’s sublime effort seemed to secure Spain’s victory, but Xavi Simons equalized once more, sending the game to penalties. Despite a miss from Yamal, goalkeeper Unai Simon’s heroics and Pedri’s winning penalty propelled Spain into a semifinal clash with France.
“We’re Spain and we don’t have to fear anyone,” Pedri said confidently ahead of their June 5 match in Stuttgart.
France Completes Comeback Against Croatia
At the Stade de France, France overturned a two-goal deficit to eliminate Croatia in a penalty shootout. Michael Olise’s stunning free-kick and Ousmane Dembele’s composed finish tied the aggregate score. Theo Hernandez missed a chance to win it during the shootout, but Dayot Upamecano kept his cool in sudden death to secure a 5-4 victory on penalties for France.
The UEFA Nations League semifinals promise more excitement as Portugal faces Germany, and Spain takes on France in what are set to be exhilarating encounters.
