Italy’s stirring second-half fightback was not enough to overcome a dismal first-half performance, as they drew 3-3 with Germany in the second leg of their Nations League quarter-final tie.
Despite the thrilling comeback, Italy ultimately fell short, going out 5-4 on aggregate. Germany dominated the first half, taking a 3-0 lead into the interval, courtesy of goals from Joshua Kimmich, Tim Kleindienst, and a bizarre strike from Jamal Musiala.
The match seemed all but over at halftime, but Italy coach Luciano Spalletti made two crucial substitutions at the break, introducing Matteo Politano and Davide Frattesi. The changes paid off, as Italy instantly improved, with Moise Kean scoring twice to reduce the arrears.
Kean’s second goal, a wonderful, curled finish in the 69th minute, brought Italy back to 5-3 on aggregate, and the Azzurri suddenly had hope.
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However, despite their best efforts, Italy were unable to find the goal that would have forced extra time. Germany clung on, and when Giacomo Raspadori converted a penalty in stoppage time, it was too little, too late.
Italy’s dramatic comeback had fallen short, and Germany advanced to the Nations League semi-finals with a 5-4 aggregate victory.
Joshua Kimmich was the star of the show for Germany, producing an outstanding first-half performance with a goal and two assists.
The Bayern Munich midfielder has now been directly involved in each of Germany’s last five goals, and his performance was instrumental in securing Germany’s place in the semi-finals.
The defeat was a bitter pill for Italy to swallow, but they can take heart from their second-half performance. Despite a dismal start, the Azzurri showed tremendous spirit and fight, and their comeback will be remembered for a long time.
However, for now, it’s Germany who move on to the semi-finals, where they will face either Spain or Portugal.
