Leon Goretzka seals victory for Germany against Italy in Nations League
- Germany came from behind to defeat Italy 2-1 at the San Siro in Milan during the Nations League quarter-finals.
- After Italy's early goal, Germany equalized with a header from substitute Tim Kleindienst before Leon Goretzka scored the winning goal.
- This victory marks Germany's first away win over Italy since 1986 and sets them up favorably for the second leg in Dortmund.
On March 20, 2025, Germany secured a 2-1 victory over Italy in the first leg of their Nations League quarter-final, held at the San Siro in Milan. Italy took the lead early in the match when Sandro Tonali scored in the ninth minute. Despite a strong performance and maintaining possession, Germany struggled to equalize in the first half, with several missed opportunities. The turning point came in the second half when substitute Tim Kleindienst, just four minutes after being introduced, scored the equalizer with a powerful header from a Joshua Kimmich cross. Leon Goretzka ultimately secured the win in the 76th minute with a deft header from a Kimmich corner, marking his impactful return to the national team after a lengthy absence. This win not only showcased Germany's resilience but also their ability to capitalize on set-pieces, reflecting on their chances in the Nations League. The match was significant as it was Germany's first win over Italy away from home since 1986, highlighting the stakes of this rivalry and the implications for the tournament. The second leg of the quarter-final is scheduled for March 23, 2025, in Dortmund, where Germany hopes to secure a place in the semi-finals, potentially facing Denmark or Portugal.