Germany vs Portugal prediction, H2H and probable lineups — June 4, 2025
The UEFA Nations League semifinal will see Germany take on Portugal in a blockbuster showdown. The match is set for Wednesday, June 4, in Munich, with kickoff scheduled for 21:00 Central European Time. I'm offering my pick on both the outcome and the scoring potential in this clash.
Match preview
After a disappointing attempt to win the European Championship on home soil, Germany will now aim to conquer another prestigious competition. Julian Nagelsmann's squad has been playing attacking football, but they've sometimes lacked composure at crucial moments.
The team navigated the autumn phase of the Nations League in dominant fashion, remaining unbeaten throughout. The only top-tier opponent in their group was the Netherlands, yet the Germans proved their superiority on the field. Ultimately, 14 points were enough to secure a quarterfinal berth.
In March, Die Mannschaft defeated Italy in Milan, but let a 3-0 lead slip in the return leg. Joshua Kimmich delivered a stunning performance, being involved in all five of his side's goals, which powered them into the semifinals.
Notably, Germany had never reached the decisive stages of the Nations League before. This is their first shot at a medal in the prestigious tournament, and motivation is sky-high with the final stage being hosted on home turf.
Portugal were the inaugural UEFA Nations League champions in 2019, but haven't made it back to the business end since. This campaign, led by the evergreen Ronaldo, the Selecao are hungry for a second title, but they're up against a formidable German side.
After a disappointing Euro exit at the hands of France in the quarterfinals, Portugal are re-energized and eager for redemption. The squad is packed with young global stars, but Cristiano remains the undisputed leader.
The legendary forward is sure to put any club football distractions aside and focus fully on his national team duties. Despite his age, he still has the ability to decide games at the highest level.
Portugal topped a tough group featuring Poland, Scotland, and Croatia, but their quarterfinal nearly ended in disaster. Martinez's side only managed to defeat Denmark in extra time, but ultimately got the job done in convincing fashion.
Match facts
- Germany are unbeaten in their last eight matches.
- The German national team hasn't lost at home in a year and a half.
- Portugal have failed to win in regular time in their last three games.
- Portugal have just one win in their last four away matches.
- Germany average 2.7 goals per game at home, while Portugal average 1.4 goals per away game.
Probable lineups
- Germany: Baumann, Anton, Tah, Bisseck, Mittelstädt, Kimmich, Stiller, Goretzka, Sané, Wirtz, Undav.
- Portugal: Costa, Mendes, Inácio, Dias, Dalot, Neves, Vitinha, Fernandes, Silva, Leão, Ronaldo.
H2H
- Germany have beaten Portugal in their last five head-to-head encounters.
- Portugal have not defeated Germany since 2000.
Prediction
A place in the Nations League final is at stake, so expect a tense and intriguing contest. The Germans are favorites, especially with the home crowd behind them. Recently, Nagelsmann's side have looked strong and consistent—something Portugal can't quite claim at the moment. Denmark showed how to stifle the Portuguese attack, so Germany's priority should be defensive solidity. In matches like these, the first goal is often decisive and opens the game up. I think Germany have the edge, so my pick is for the hosts not to lose and a total under 3.5 goals.
