The UEFA Nations League 2025 resumed its matches in the quarterfinals. But, boy, this has brought to us world-class football as if this is going to be the peak action this season, forcing the fans to sit through those penalty shootouts to late goals, watching masterclasses on tactical learning by the top clubs in Europe. Now, with the dust settled, we know the semifinalists and can only look for the grand finals in June.

Let’s get in on the results, what went down in the matches, notable highlights, and where they go from here.

Quarterfinal Results and Match Highlights

Spain beat the Netherlands (Aggregate: 5-4; Spain won on penalties)

In one of the most dramatic confrontations, Spain pulled a surprising win from the Netherlands after a tight penalty shootout.

First Leg (March 20, 2025 – Rotterdam): It ended in a 2-2 score. Spain went ahead first by Nico Williams, but then Netherlands came back and scored two goals with Cody Gakpo, and Tijani Reijnedrs getting on the scoresheet. Spain equalized in the late injury time with Arsenal’s Mikel Merino. Jorrel Hato from the Dutch side was sent off in the 81st minute.

Second Leg (March 23, 2025 – Valencia): The second leg promised more goal-feasting as it managed to end in 3-3 with extra time. Granting to Spain was Lamine Yamal’s vital goal that rekindled their hopes. In the shootout, El héroe was Unai Simón, stopping the lethal kick to carry Spain through.

UEFA Nations League 2025: France vs. Croatia: (Aggregate: 2-2, France won on penalties)

Incredible French battle over a well-resolved Croatian side.

First Leg (March 20, 2025 – Zagreb): Croatia surprised the World Cup 22 runners-up in this match with a 2-0 victory courtesy of Ivan Perišić and Ante Budimir.

Second Leg (March 23, 2025 – Paris): The second installment was the comeback night for the Les Blues as they overcame a 2-0 goal deficit from the first leg. Michael Olise and in-form Ousmane Dembélé got on the scoresheet. In the penalty shootout, Martin Baturina missed the penalty.

Portugal vs. Denmark (Aggregate: 5-3, Portugal wins)

By an aggregate score much too decisive against Denmark, Portugal marched to the semifinals.

First Leg (March 20, 2025 – Copenhagen): Portugal had lost 1-0 loss, with the sole goal scored by Denmark’s Rasmus Højlund.

Second Leg (March 23, 2025 – Lisbon): Portugal made a dramatic comeback losing on aggregate 3-2 till the 85th minutes of the match. Francisco Trincão scored in the 86 and 91st minute of the match to take the game to extra time, Gonçalo Ramos scored the winner in 115 min. Portugal on aggregate won by 5-3 score.

Germany vs. Italy (Aggregate: 5-4, Germany proceeds)

Another classic match was played between Germany and Italy. This time, Germany won it all, again in a very close race.

First Leg (March 20, 2025 – Rome): Sandro Tonali opened the score in Rome, however, Germany made a comeback winning 2-1 with goals from Tim Kleindienst and Leon Goretzka.

Second Leg (March 23, 2025 – Munich): Six-goal thriller: Germany’s Jamal Musiala, Joshua Kimmich, and Tim Kleindienst  scored a total of three goals each, Moise Kean scored a brace and Giacomo Raspadori scored in Injury time which, however, wasn’t enough to turn the tide for Gli Azzurri.

Summary Points of the Quarterfinals

Spain’s Young Stars Shine

Spain’s new generation, embodied by Lamine Yamal and Pedri, finished off the work of defeating and eliminating the Netherlands. Their attacking flair in the tournament was matched by their composure during the penalty shootout, evidencing growing maturity on the big stage.

France’s Defensive Resilience

France failed to find a break for the better part of the match but dug deep against Croatia. Solidifying the attack through Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé along with an assured performance from Maignan in goal guarantees that they are favorites for the title.

Portugal’s Squad Depth

Bigger statements about their depth can be aptly made when performances of domination are sustained on full squad alterations. With the gradual phase-out of Ronaldo, other players such as Bruno Fernandes, Francisco Trincão, and Gonçalo Ramos stepped up.

Germany’s Tactical Flexibility

Germany’s ability to adapt its tactics in high-pressure situations allowed them to outlast Italy. Julian Nagelsmann’s tweaks and attacking substitutions were effective to prove Germany is still a title contender.

Future Directions: Semifinal Matchups

With the quarter-final matches now in the rearview mirror, here are the semifinals:

🔹 France Vs. Spain – June 5, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Arena Stuttgart. This is a rematch of the final of the 2021 Nations League, with both eager to stake their claim for supremacy.

🔹 Germany Vs. Portugal – June 5, 2025, at Allianz Arena, Munich. A clash of attacking brilliance where Germany’s attack meets tactical strength from Portugal.

The winners will cross paths in the final on June 8, 2025, at Allianz Arena, Munich.

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Final Words

The UEFA Nations League 2025 quarterfinals, with all the thrill and excitement they generated, were a showcase of the finest European football. With glory now to be contested by Spain, France, Germany, and Portugal, even more, drama and memories await in the semis.

Will France remain the ruler? Will Spain’s young generation once again rule? Will Germany’s support force carry them to the finals? Or will Portugal’s team strength win them the crown?

Read more: Arsenal to Face Real Madrid in Champions League Quarter-Finals

One thing is for sure – the UEFA Nations League is heading into its climax, and it will be a hell of a ride for all football fans. ⚽🔥