Germany, Croatia, and Denmark secure wins in UEFA Nations League quarterfinal first legs
KATHMANDU: Germany staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Italy 2-1 in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals on Thursday. Italy initially took the lead in the 9th minute with a goal from Sandro Tonali.
However, Germany responded in the second half, with Tim Kleindienst equalizing in the 49th minute and Leon Goretzka scoring the decisive goal in the 76th minute.
The second leg will take place in Germany on March 24.
In another quarterfinal match, Croatia triumphed 2-0 over France at home. Ante Budimir put Croatia ahead in the 26th minute, and Ivan Perišić sealed the win with a goal in injury time during the first half.
The second leg between the two teams is scheduled for March 24 in France.
Denmark also claimed a 1-0 victory against Portugal in their first leg. The only goal of the match came from Rasmus Højlund in the 78th minute. The second leg will be played in Portugal on March 24.
The Netherlands and Spain played out a 2-2 draw in the other UEFA Nations League quarterfinals.
UEFA Nations League Playoffs Results:
In the UEFA Nations League playoffs, Georgia defeated Armenia 3-0, Hungary beat Turkey 3-1, and Scotland overcame Greece 1-0.
Austria and Serbia played to a 1-1 draw, while Slovakia and Slovenia ended in a goalless stalemate.
Ukraine triumphed 3-1 over Belgium, Ireland won 2-1 against Bulgaria, and Kosovo defeated Iceland 2-1.
