Ronaldo Stuns Germany to Send Portugal to Nations League Final

Cristiano Ronaldo added another unforgettable chapter to his legendary career, scoring his 137th international goal to seal Portugal’s 2-1 comeback victory over Germany in the UEFA Nations League semifinal at the Allianz Arena.

The 40-year-old forward, already the all-time top scorer in international football and senior career goals, extended his staggering tally to 937 career goals with a trademark close-range finish in the 73rd minute. The goal not only secured Portugal’s place in the final but also underscored Ronaldo’s enduring brilliance on the international stage.

Germany had taken the lead early in the second half through Florian Wirtz, whose 48th-minute header put the hosts ahead. The goal came via a lofted assist from Joshua Kimmich in his 100th cap, though Portugal were incensed that a possible foul by debutant Nick Woltemade on Ruben Dias wasn’t penalized after a VAR check.

But Portugal, led by their veteran captain, responded with composure and flair. In the 63rd minute, 22-year-old substitute Francisco Conceição breathed new life into the match with a stunning solo effort, collecting the ball on the right, cutting inside, and curling a precise strike past Marc-André ter Stegen.

Just five minutes later, it was Ronaldo’s moment. Left unmarked in the box, he calmly tapped in a low cross from Nuno Mendes, sending Portuguese fans into raptures and Germany scrambling for a response.

Ronaldo, who spearheaded Portugal’s Nations League triumph in 2019, will now have the chance to lead his country to a second title, potentially capping his international legacy with yet another piece of silverware.