By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Cristiano Ronaldo turned back the clock on Wednesday night, June 4, 2025, delivering a match-winning performance as Portugal edged Germany 2–1 in a dramatic UEFA Nations League semifinal at the Allianz Arena. In front of 65,823 fans, the 40-year-old legend scored the decisive goal to end a 25-year winless streak for Portugal against Germany—and his own personal five-game drought versus the European powerhouse.
Germany opened the scoring early in the second half when Florian Wirtz calmly finished a Joshua Kimmich assist in the 48th minute. But Portugal responded with intent. Francisco Conceição equalized in the 63rd minute following sustained pressure, and five minutes later, Ronaldo pounced inside the box for his 137th international goal—extending his all-time men’s record and becoming the oldest player to score against Germany.
The night was rich in symbolism. The last Portuguese win over Germany had come in 2000, when Sergio Conceição—Francisco’s father—netted a famous hat trick. This time, it was the son and Ronaldo who reversed history.
Goalkeeper Diogo Costa made key saves to keep Portugal in the game, while midfielder Vitinha and Portugal’s defense stood strong against German pressure. Germany’s Marc-André ter Stegen impressed but couldn’t prevent Portugal’s quickfire double.
Head coach Roberto Martínez praised the team’s tactical discipline and Ronaldo’s leadership. Portugal now heads to the final on June 8 to face Spain, with one question looming: can Ronaldo crown his legacy with one more international trophy?
For now, the legend grows.
