Relive the thrilling UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, where unexpected heroes emerged, legends faltered, and football showcased its unpredictable beauty.
The UEFA Nations League quarter-finals on March 23, 2025, delivered an unforgettable spectacle, reminding fans why football is the world’s most beloved sport. With 21 goals across four matches, unexpected heroes, and heart-stopping drama, the night encapsulated the essence of football’s unpredictability.
Germany vs. Italy: A Tactical Chess Match
At Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park, Germany and Italy faced off in a match that will be remembered for its strategic depth and unexpected twists. Germany entered the second leg with a 2-1 advantage, but Italy’s resilience was evident from the outset.
First-Half Dominance by Germany
Germany’s head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, made strategic lineup changes, introducing Nico Schlotterbeck and Maximilian Mittelstädt to bolster the defense and attack, respectively. These adjustments paid off as Germany dominated the first half. Joshua Kimmich orchestrated the midfield, and his quick thinking led to a pivotal moment. Taking advantage of Italy’s distracted defense during a corner kick, Kimmich delivered a swift pass to Jamal Musiala, who scored effortlessly. This clever play drew parallels to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s famous assist against Barcelona in 2019.
Italy’s Resilient Fightback
Despite trailing 3-0 on the night and 5-1 on aggregate, Italy showcased their fighting spirit in the second half. Former Everton striker Moise Kean, who had been quiet in the first half, scored twice, reigniting hopes of a miraculous comeback. A controversial moment arose when Italy was awarded a penalty, only for the decision to be overturned after a VAR review. Although Italy managed a stoppage-time penalty, it was insufficient, and Germany advanced with a 5-4 aggregate victory.
France vs. Croatia: The Art of the Comeback
In Paris, the Stade de France bore witness to a classic tale of perseverance as France overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Croatia.
Olise’s Moment of Brilliance
The French side, frustrated for over 50 minutes, found inspiration in Michael Olise. The former Crystal Palace winger, now with Bayern Munich, delivered a stunning 25-yard free-kick, breathing life into France’s campaign. This goal shifted the momentum, and with ten minutes remaining, Ousmane Dembélé, capitalizing on Olise’s precise cutback, leveled the aggregate score, pushing the match into extra time.
Penalty Shootout Drama
With no goals in extra time, the tie proceeded to a penalty shootout. French goalkeeper Mike Maignan emerged as the hero, saving two Croatian spot-kicks. The shootout extended into sudden death, where Dayot Upamecano sealed France’s progression, converting the decisive penalty after Maignan’s crucial save against Josip Stanišić.
Portugal vs. Denmark: Ronaldo’s Redemption
In Lisbon, Portugal faced Denmark in a match that tested the nerves of players and fans alike.
Early Setback for Ronaldo
The game began dramatically as Cristiano Ronaldo earned a penalty within the first five minutes. However, his attempt was thwarted by Kasper Schmeichel, marking the 32nd penalty miss of his illustrious career.
Portugal’s Resilience
Undeterred, Portugal pressed on. An own goal by Joachim Andersen leveled the aggregate score. Ronaldo redeemed his earlier miss by scoring his 136th international goal in the second half. The match extended into extra time, where Francisco Trincão and Gonçalo Ramos added goals, securing Portugal’s 5-3 aggregate triumph.
Spain vs. Netherlands: A Rollercoaster Encounter
The Mestalla Stadium in Valencia hosted a thrilling contest between Spain and the Netherlands, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Seesaw Battle
The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging goals. Young talent Lamine Yamal showcased his burgeoning prowess by giving Spain the lead in extra time. However, the Netherlands responded swiftly through Xavi Simons, exemplifying their resilience.
Shootout Heartbreak for the Dutch
In the ensuing penalty shootout, both sides experienced misses. Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón’s crucial save against Donyell Malen set the stage for Pedri to convert the winning penalty, propelling Spain into the semi-finals. Dutch manager Ronald Koeman reflected on the narrow margins, stating, “I think that both teams should have gone through but that’s impossible. In part, fortune decided that Spain won.
Emerging Heroes and Unforgettable Moments
Beyond the goals and results, the quarter-finals highlighted individual moments that will be etched in footballing lore.
The Ball Boy’s Quick Thinking
In the Germany-Italy clash, a 15-year-old ball boy named Noel Urbaniack played an unexpected role in Germany’s second goal. Recognizing Joshua Kimmich’s urgency, Urbaniack swiftly provided the ball for a quick corner, catching the Italian defense off-guard and leading to Jamal Musiala’s goal. Urbaniack humbly recounted, “We had brief eye contact. I saw he wanted the ball and I quickly threw it to him. It was my first time as a ball boy.”
Veterans and Rising Stars
The matches also showcased the blend of experience and youth in modern football. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, continued to defy age with his performance