Football fans were treated to an unforgettable night of Nations League action as the quarter-final second legs delivered 21 goals, dramatic comebacks, and penalty shootout heartbreak. With three matches going into extra time and two being settled by spot kicks, it was a night of pure chaos that saw France, Germany, Portugal, and Spain advance to the semi-finals.
Ronaldo’s Mixed Night as Portugal Prevails
Cristiano Ronaldo had the chance to put Portugal ahead early against Denmark when he won a penalty just five minutes in. However, the 40-year-old legend saw his effort saved by Kasper Schmeichel, marking the 32nd penalty miss of his illustrious career. Despite the setback, Portugal rallied to win 5-2 on the night and 5-3 on aggregate, with Francisco Trincão’s late equalizer forcing extra time before two more goals sealed the victory.
Ball Boy Sparks Germany’s Fast Start
Germany’s clash with Italy saw one of the night’s most unusual assists—by a 15-year-old ball boy. As goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma argued with the referee, young Noel Urbaniack quickly handed the ball to Joshua Kimmich, who played it to Jamal Musiala for an easy goal. Germany raced to a 3-0 halftime lead, only for Italy to stage a spirited fightback. Moise Kean scored twice to make it 5-3 on aggregate, and a late penalty reduced the deficit further, but it wasn’t enough to stop Germany from advancing.
France and Spain Survive Late Drama
France and Spain both had to navigate nerve-wracking penalty shootouts to secure their semi-final spots. Ousmane Dembélé’s late goal rescued France against Croatia, taking the game to extra time before goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s heroics in the shootout sealed a 5-4 victory.
Spain’s thrilling contest with the Netherlands saw both teams exchange goals in a pulsating 3-3 draw (5-5 on aggregate). Lamine Yamal’s stunning extra-time goal briefly put Spain ahead, but the Dutch equalized once more, forcing penalties. In the end, Unai Simón’s crucial save from Donyell Malen allowed Pedri to send Spain through with the winning spot kick.
Semi-Finals Set for June
With France, Germany, Portugal, and Spain securing their spots, the semi-finals in Stuttgart and Munich promise to be must-watch football. If Sunday’s action is anything to go by, fans can expect more unforgettable moments when the Nations League resumes in June.
