MILAN, March 21 — Leon Goretzka marked his return to international football with a crucial goal, securing Germany’s 2-1 victory over Italy in the first leg of their Nations League quarter-final yesterday.
MILAN, March 21 — Leon Goretzka marked his return to international football with a crucial goal, securing Germany’s 2-1 victory over Italy in the first leg of their Nations League quarter-final yesterday.
The Bayern Munich midfielder headed in the winner from Joshua Kimmich’s corner in the 76th minute, completing Germany’s comeback at the San Siro after trailing early in the match.
Recalled by Julian Nagelsmann for this tie, Goretzka made an immediate impact, scoring his first goal for Germany since his late equalizer against Hungary in Euro 2020. His performance earned praise from Nagelsmann.
“He played well, attacked well, and had a strong presence on the pitch. I’m really happy with how he performed,” said the Germany coach.
Goretzka had been at risk of leaving Bayern earlier this season but fought his way back into both his club and national team. Nagelsmann noted his resilience, saying, “Young players can learn from him that tough times don’t last if you stay committed.”
Italy’s Set-Piece Woes Continue
Despite a solid performance, Italy fell short again due to their struggles with aerial duels and set pieces.
Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann made key saves to deny Moise Kean and Giacomo Raspadori, but Italy’s inability to defend crosses proved costly. Sandro Tonali had given the hosts an early lead, but substitute Tim Kleindienst leveled the score in the 49th minute with a header from another precise Kimmich cross.
Coach Luciano Spalletti acknowledged Italy’s vulnerability in the air.
“We know they have a height advantage, and set plays are a weak point for us,” he admitted. “But we can’t dwell on it too much, or it will become an obsession.”
Spalletti also revealed that Riccardo Calafiori experienced discomfort in his knee after a late fall but did not confirm whether he would be fit for Sunday’s second leg in Dortmund.
High Stakes for the Second Leg
The return match at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion holds historical significance for Italy, as it was the site of their memorable 2006 World Cup semi-final win over Germany. However, it also saw them concede the fastest goal in European Championship history—just 23 seconds into their Euro 2024 group stage opener against Albania.
Beyond a spot in the Nations League semi-finals, the winner of this two-legged tie will earn hosting rights for the tournament’s final stage in June.
Additionally, the victor will join Slovakia, Northern Ireland, and Luxembourg in World Cup qualifying Group A, while the loser will be placed in Group I alongside Norway, Israel, Estonia, and Moldova. — AFP
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