Germany have taken firm control of their UEFA Nations League (UNL) quarter-final after a resilient 2-1 comeback victory over Italy at the San Siro on Thursday night.
This landmark triumph marked Germany’s first away win against the Azzurri since 1986, extending their unbeaten run in this fixture to seven matches (W4, D3). Now, with confidence soaring, Julian Nagelsmann’s men return home eager to seal their place in the UNL semi-finals for the first time in the competition’s history.
Germany’s recent form at home makes them formidable opponents, having won their last three matches on German soil with a staggering aggregate score of 13-0. Such dominance suggests the hosts are more than capable of securing the result they need in Dortmund to advance to the last four.
Despite their first-leg setback, Italy will be determined to mount a comeback and book a semi-final clash against either Denmark or Portugal. However, Luciano Spalletti’s side has exhibited vulnerabilities in recent fixtures, winning just two of their last five games (D1, L2). Thursday’s loss to Germany compounded their woes following a 3-1 defeat to France in November.
Spalletti has acknowledged his side’s struggles in defending set-pieces, a weakness that proved costly in the first leg when Leon Goretzka’s header sealed Germany’s victory. The Italy boss has vowed to address these issues, which is crucial given the Azzurri’s attacking proficiency—having scored in 19 of their last 20 UNL matches, including netting before halftime in each of their last ten.
Players to Watch:
- Tim Kleindienst (Germany): The striker has been in fine form, scoring for Borussia Mönchengladbach before the international break. His goal against Italy took his tally to three strikes in as many international appearances.
- Sandro Tonali (Italy): The midfielder found the net on Thursday and has contributed two goals and two assists in Italy’s current UNL campaign, making him a key figure in their comeback hopes.
Hot Streak: None of Germany’s last 22 UNL matches have ended in a 0-0 draw, promising another entertaining contest in Dortmund.
With everything to play for, Germany will look to capitalize on their home advantage, while Italy aim to overturn the deficit and keep their UNL aspirations alive. Will Germany make history, or can the Azzurri pull off a dramatic comeback?
