The UEFA Nations League is heading into its final stretch with four elite teams left in contention. The semi-finals of League A mark the closing chapter of the 2024/25 international season. Germany, Portugal, Spain and France will compete for a spot in the final on Monday, June 9 at 5 am AEST. All matches will stream live on Optus Sport in Australia.
Germany Target First Nations League Title on Home Soil
Germany will host the final four matches and aim to secure their first Nations League crown. Julian Nagelsmann’s team has found form after a steady 2024. The side suffered just one defeat in 2024, falling 2-1 in extra time to Spain during EURO 2024. Germany defeated Italy in the quarter-finals and now face a tough semi-final clash against Portugal.
Germany National Football Team
Portugal Aim to End Poor Run Against Germany
Portugal enters the semi-finals as the 2019 Nations League champions but will need to overcome a poor record against Germany. The Portuguese have lost their last four matches against Germany and conceded eight goals in the last two encounters. Roberto Martinez guided Portugal past Denmark in the quarter-finals after a mixed 2024 campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo remains a key figure with his club future yet to be confirmed.
Semi-Final 1: Germany v Portugal
The first semi-final kicks off Thursday, June 5 at 5 am AEST. Germany hold a strong recent record over Portugal and look confident on home turf. Portugal will need a significant turnaround to challenge for the final.
Spain Eye Back-to-Back Nations League Titles
Spain enters the semi-finals as reigning Nations League and European champions. Luis de la Fuente’s side has won 14 of their past 15 matches. The Spanish survived a tight quarter-final against the Netherlands, winning in a penalty shootout. Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has stood out in another successful domestic campaign and remains a key figure.
France Prepare for Rematch with Spain
France is preparing for a rematch of last year’s EURO 2024 semi-final, where they lost 2-1 to Spain. Didier Deschamps’ team aims to turn the tables in Friday’s semi-final. Les Bleus boast a powerful attack led by Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, both in top form. France qualified for the semi-finals after a solid quarter-final performance, demonstrating tactical discipline.
Semi-Final 2: Spain v France
The second semi-final will be held on Friday, June 6 at 5 am AEST. Spain and France have a history of tense contests. Spain will attempt to maintain their dominant form while France looks to secure revenge and reach another final.
Final Set for June 9 in Germany
The Nations League final will take place on Monday, June 9, at 5 am AEST in Germany. The winner of each semi-final will meet for the trophy. The tournament has brought Europe’s best into a competitive end-of-season contest. Each team is now just two wins away from becoming the UEFA Nations League champions.
Optus Sport to Broadcast All Matches in Australia
Every UEFA Nations League match will be shown live on Optus Sport in Australia. Fans will be able to watch every moment from the semi-finals through to the final. The streaming service has exclusive rights to the competition in Australia.
Germany, Spain Enter as Favourites
Germany and Spain appear strong contenders based on recent form and head-to-head results. Germany will aim to leverage home advantage, while Spain seeks to repeat their recent title wins. Portugal and France must overcome recent challenges to return to the top. With all four teams packed with talent, the Nations League promises an intense conclusion.
Road to the Final Nears Completion
The current Nations League campaign began in 2023 and has seen Europe’s best clash in high-stakes contests. The semi-finals now bring the strongest four together in one final push. Germany, Portugal, Spain and France have emerged through group stages and quarter-finals to reach this point. The competition’s structure ensures high-quality encounters and strong national rivalries.
Final Showdown to Cap Off Season
The Nations League final will conclude the 2024/25 European season. With clubs off-duty, national pride now takes centre stage. All eyes will be on Germany next week as the tournament reaches its decisive matches. Only one nation will leave with the title.
