Thu Mar 20 18:30:00 UTC 2025: **Germany Edges Italy in Nations League Thriller**
**MILAN** – Germany secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Italy in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final at the San Siro on Thursday. Leon Goretzka’s late header proved to be the decisive goal, giving Germany a crucial one-goal advantage heading into the second leg.
Italy took the lead early on through Sandro Tonali, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. However, Germany fought back, equalizing in the second half with a header from substitute Tim Kleindienst. Goretzka then secured the win with a late goal, despite Italy’s late pressure.
Germany dominated possession throughout the match, but Italy posed a significant threat on the counter-attack. The match featured several key saves from both goalkeepers, Oliver Baumann for Germany and Gianluigi Donnarumma for Italy.
Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann praised Goretzka’s performance, highlighting his impact on both the defensive and offensive sides of the game. Italy manager Luciano Spalletti acknowledged costly errors that led to Germany’s goals.
The second leg will take place at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion on Sunday. The winner will advance to the Nations League semifinals and will host the final in June.
First Piper 