Portugal came from behind to beat Germany 2-1 in Munich and reach the Nations League final, but the hosts' opening goal through Liverpool transfer target Florian Wirtz sparked controversy
MUNICH, GERMANY - JUNE 04: Bernardo Silva of Portugal reacts during the UEFA Nations League 2025 semifinal match between Germany and Portugal at Munich Football Arena on June 04, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Maryam Majd/Getty Images)
Bernardo Silva was enraged by the referee(Image: Maryam Majd/Getty Images)
Portugal star Bernardo Silva has slammed the referee who was in charge of their 2-1 victory over Germany in the Nations League semi-finals. Wednesday's dramatic clash at the Allianz Arena was decided by a record-breaking goal from Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo in the 68th minute, as the 2019 winners became the first country to reach two Nations League finals.
Roberto Martinez's side had to come from behind after Florian Wirtz put Germany in front just after half-time. Wirtz, who's in talks to join Premier League champions Liverpool in a club-record transfer deal, headed home after an intelligent one-two with team-mate Joshua Kimmich.
Portugal were incensed, though, as Germany striker Nick Woltemade was standing in an offside position and appeared to block Ruben Dias, allowing Wirtz a free header from 10 yards. Martinez received a yellow card for his protests, as did Ruben Neves.
Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic was sent to the pitch-side monitor yet only needed a glance to stick to his original decision. Another point of contention was Wirtz's studs-up challenge on Bruno Fernandes.
The Manchester United captain was furious after the Bayer Leverkusen star left one on him but avoided a booking. Portugal used their anger to mount a rapid comeback, as substitute Francisco Conceicao scored a dazzling solo goal to level the scores before Nuno Mendes set Ronaldo up for a simple finish five minutes later.
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The visitors saw out the win to book their place in Sunday's final, where they'll play France or European champions Spain. Post-match, Silva didn't let the result overshadow his feelings about the referee.
Speaking to Optus Sport, the Manchester City star said: "A tough game, we expected that because they have a lot of quality. Playing at home, we knew they were going to play with a lot of intensity, with a lot of energy like they always do.
Should Florian Wirtz's goal have been allowed? Let us know your verdict in the comments section.
MUNICH, GERMANY - JUNE 04: Bruno Fernandes of Portugal vies with Florian Wirtz of Germany during the UEFA Nations League 2025 semifinal match between Germany and Portugal at Munich Football Arena on June 04, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stefan Matzke - sampics/Getty Images)
Florian Wirtz caught Bruno Fernandes with his studs but wasn't booked
"But today we played a good game. A lot of character, a lot of intensity as well from us. Going down 1-0 is not easy in the beginning of the [second] half even if the goal is offside, even if the referee doesn't know the rules but that's another question. We're happy we were able to come back."
Wirtz, 22, did eventually get booked by Vincic after an altercation with Silva in the 84th minute. The 30-year-old had the last laugh, too, as Portugal outclassed their opponents and gave themselves the chance to make history when they return to Munich for what'll be a mouth-watering final on Sunday.
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