The UEFA Nations League quarter-finals bring a blockbuster clash as Italy vs Germany takes center stage. Both nations, boasting four FIFA World Cup titles each, are set to battle in the first-leg fixture on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at San Siro Stadium, Milan. The kick-off is scheduled for 7:45 PM UK time, with FOX Sports broadcasting the game in the US, while UK details remain unconfirmed.
Both teams have had eventful campaigns leading to this stage, and with some key players missing due to injuries, the upcoming match promises surprises.
📅 UEFA Nations League Quarter-Final First Leg Fixtures 🏆
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) March 18, 2025
🔥 The road to the semi-finals heats up with thrilling matchups:#UEFANationsLeague #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/nuxYQ0qkxa
Italy’s Recent Form and Tactical Approach
Under Luciano Spalletti, Italy has displayed resilience following a challenging UEFA EURO 2024 campaign. The Azzurri finished second in Group A2, narrowly missing out on the top spot to France on goal difference. They won four of their six group-stage games, showcasing a combination of defensive solidity and attacking efficiency.
Italy’s Tactical Setup
Spalletti prefers a 3-5-2 formation, focusing on wing-back play and midfield dominance. However, Italy faces injury setbacks, including:
- Federico Dimarco (hamstring injury) – The Inter Milan wing-back’s absence opens the door for Tottenham Hotspur’s Destiny Udogie to step in.
- Andrea Cambiaso (ankle injury) – The Juventus full-back is doubtful, which could force adjustments in defense.
Despite these setbacks, Italy’s strength in midfield and structured defense will be crucial.
Germany’s Squad Dynamics and Strategy
Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany heads into the clash in top form, having topped Group A3 with an unbeaten record (four wins and two draws). Die Mannschaft has been ruthless in attack, averaging three goals per game in the Nations League group stage.
Germany’s Tactical Setup
Nagelsmann is expected to stick to his 4-2-3-1 formation, which emphasizes fluid midfield play and attacking versatility. However, Germany, too, has injury concerns:
- Florian Wirtz & Kai Havertz are ruled out, affecting creativity in midfield.
- Marc-André ter Stegen & Manuel Neuer are unavailable, making Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann the likely starter in goal.
- Yann Aurel Bisseck receives his first senior national call-up, bringing fresh defensive options.
With Germany’s attacking power still strong, they will aim to exploit any weaknesses in Italy’s backline.
Predicted Lineups
Italy (3-5-2):
Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Buongiorno; Calafiori, Barella, Tonali, Frattesi, Udogie; Raspadori, Retegui.
Germany (4-2-3-1):
Baumann; Kimmich, Schlotterbeck, Rüdiger, Raum; Goretzka, Andrich; Musiala, Sané, Adeyemi; Undav.
Both teams possess depth and tactical discipline, making this an exciting contest.
Key Players to Watch in Italy vs Germany
Italy:
- Sandro Tonali – A midfield maestro capable of dictating the tempo with his vision and passing range.
- Matteo Retegui – The Serie A top scorer this season, Retegui’s finishing ability will be key.
Germany:
- Jamal Musiala – The Bayern Munich starlet is known for his dribbling and creativity in tight spaces.
- Leroy Sané – His blistering pace and ability to cut inside make him Germany’s biggest threat on the wing.
Match Prediction: Italy vs Germany
Both teams bring attacking firepower and defensive solidity, making this a closely contested match. Italy’s home advantage could give them the edge, but Germany’s fluid attack makes them a constant threat.
Prediction: Italy 2-2 Germany – Expect an intense, high-scoring battle with both teams finding the net.
FAQs Abaout Italy vs Germany:
When and where is Italy vs Germany?
The match takes place on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at San Siro Stadium, Milan, with kick-off at 7:45 PM UK time.
Where can I watch the match?
Fans in the US can watch on FOX Sports, while UK broadcast details are yet to be announced.
Who are the key players to watch?
For Italy, Sandro Tonali and Matteo Retegui are crucial. For Germany, Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sané will be key.
What are the injury concerns for both teams?
Italy will miss Federico Dimarco, while Germany is without Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz. Both teams also have goalkeeping concerns.
What is the likely match result?
A 2-2 draw is a probable outcome, given the attacking quality on both sides.
