Germany vs France

Germany Nears Fourth Under-21 Euros Title with Strong Campaign

Germany are two matches away from clinching the Under-21 European Championship for the fourth time, having previously triumphed in 2009, 2017, and 2021.

They launched their 2025 campaign with a dominant 3-0 victory over Slovenia, followed by a high-scoring 4-2 win against the Czech Republic in their second group game. A 2-1 victory over England secured Germany’s position as Group B leaders, making them the only team to emerge from the group stage with a perfect record.

In a thrilling quarter-final against Italy, Germany faced a tough challenge. Nick Woltemade equalized after Luca Koleosho’s opener, and Italy’s Willy Gnonto was sent off. Nelson Weiper’s goal and a red card to Mattia Zanotti appeared to seal Germany’s win, but nine-man Italy leveled the score in the 96th minute, forcing extra time. Freiburg’s Merlin Rohl scored the decisive goal for a 3-2 victory, setting up a semi-final showdown with France.

Germany enters the semi-final unbeaten in their last 19 international matches (16 wins, 3 draws) since a loss to England in the 2023 Under-21 Euros group stage.

France Eyes First Under-21 Euros Title Since 1988

France, aiming for their first Under-21 European Championship since 1988, reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2019 after quarter-final exits in the last two tournaments.

Their campaign began with a 0-0 draw against the eventual group winners, followed by a dramatic 3-2 win over Georgia with two late goals. A 4-1 victory against Poland in their final group match secured second place in Group C, behind Portugal on goal difference.

In their quarter-final, France staged another late comeback, with Quentin Merlin equalizing in the 84th minute and Tottenham’s Mathys Tel scoring the winning goal a minute later. Gerald Baticle’s squad has won six of their last seven internationals and remains unbeaten in eight games since a 2-1 defeat to Austria in October.

France’s attacking prowess has been evident, scoring at least two goals in seven of their last eight matches, including a 2-2 draw against Germany in a November friendly where they fought back from behind.