Published on Mar 23, 2025
By Dieudonne Tebit | March 23, 2025
The UEFA Nations League quarterfinals delivered drama in abundance as Europe’s top national teams battled for a place in the final four. With extra-time thrillers, dramatic shootouts, and stunning turnarounds, the round lived up to its billing. Here's a complete round-up of all the action from the quarterfinal stage.
Spain Edge Netherlands in a Penalty Epic
In one of the most entertaining ties of the round, Spain and the Netherlands drew 3-3 over two legs, with La Roja eventually prevailing 5-4 on penalties. The second leg, played at Mestalla, was a rollercoaster. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring with a penalty, only for Memphis Depay to equalize. Oyarzabal struck again before Ian Maatsen leveled for the Dutch. A stunning extra-time goal from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal looked like the decider, but Xavi Simons converted a late penalty to force a shootout. Unai Simón saved Donyell Malen’s attempt, and Pedri sealed the win to send Spain into the semifinals.
France Complete Comeback to Knock Out Croatia
After losing 2-0 in the first leg in Split, France had their backs against the wall. But at the Stade de France, Didier Deschamps’ men responded in style. Michael Olise sparked the revival in the 52nd minute, and Ousmane Dembélé made it 2-0 in the 80th to level the tie. With no goals in extra time, the match went to penalties. Mike Maignan stood tall, saving two Croatian spot-kicks to guide France to a 5-4 shootout triumph and a semifinal date with Spain.
Germany Outlast Italy in Six-Goal Thriller
Germany and Italy served up a classic in Dortmund, drawing 3-3 on the night and 5-4 on aggregate. Germany’s first-leg advantage proved crucial as the match swung back and forth. Despite defensive frailties—particularly from Jonathan Tah—Germany’s midfield dominance, orchestrated by Joshua Kimmich, kept them ahead. Italy fought until the end, scoring a late equalizer, but Germany held on to advance.
Portugal Power Past Denmark in Extra-Time Masterclass
Portugal turned on the style to overturn a first-leg deficit and defeat Denmark 5-2 in extra time (5-3 on aggregate). With the match finely balanced, substitute Francisco Trincão emerged as the game-changer, scoring twice. Cristiano Ronaldo also got on the scoresheet, while Gonçalo Ramos rounded off the win in the 116th minute. Portugal now face Germany in a blockbuster semifinal.
Greece Relegate Scotland with Dominant Display
In the only relegation playoff of the round, Greece stunned Scotland with a 3-0 win at Hampden Park. Goals from Konstantinos Karetsas, Giannis Konstantelias, and Christos Tzolis condemned the Scots to relegation from League A. The defeat has placed pressure on manager Steve Clarke, as questions mount over the national team’s consistency in elite competition.
Semifinal Matchups Set
With the dust settled, the Nations League semifinals are confirmed:
The stage is now set for another round of high-stakes drama as Europe’s finest prepare to battle for Nations League supremacy.
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