Germany fights back to secure narrow first-leg victory over longstanding rivals Italy

Thanks to a couple of assists from Joshua Kimmich, Germany pulled off a remarkable 2-1 comeback victory against Italy at the San Siro, positioning themselves as strong contenders to reach the UEFA Nations League (UNL) semi-finals for the first time since the tournament began.

As they made their third consecutive appearance beyond the UNL group stage, Italy’s experience on this platform perhaps gave them the edge, allowing them to take an early lead.

Nicolo Barella threaded a ball through to Matteo Politano, who managed to get there just ahead of Oliver Baumann to steer it across the box.

Although Jonathan Tah attempted to block, he could only deflect the ball into the path of Sandro Tonali, who expertly curved it past the diving German defenders and found the net.

Despite being shocked by the early goal, the visitors maintained possession, even testing Gianluigi Donnarumma with a low shot from Leon Goretzka. However, they were hit on the counter-attack time and again in a manner reminiscent of Italy’s opening goal.

Baumann produced several crucial saves as both Tonali and Moise Kean broke from the German defensive line, yet the hosts had to settle for just one goal before half-time in their last six encounters.

They would later pay the price for not capitalising on their chances, as Julian Nagelsmann’s decision to introduce Tim Kleindienst at half-time proved to be fruitful.

The Borussia Monchengladbach forward rose to meet Kimmich’s deep cross, directing a precise header past Donnarumma, marking his third goal in just five appearances for Germany.

A tense period followed, with Italy looking more likely to regain the lead, as Kean shot over the bar, and Baumann thwarted Giacomo Raspadori’s attempt.

However, in a surprising turn, it was Italy who found themselves trailing again with just 15 minutes remaining, as Kimmich’s inswinging corner took a slight deflection off Goretzka and nestled into the net.

Italy missed several opportunities late in the game, and their inability to find an equaliser now means they must win a direct clash for the first time since 2012 on Sunday if they wish to advance.

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