Germany vs France Highlights, UEFA Nations League 3rd Place Match: GER 0-2 FRA | Les Blues Finish 3rd

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Germany vs France AS IT HAPPENED, UEFA Nations League 3rd Place Match: France secured a 2-0 win over Germany in Stuttgart to finish third in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League. Despite Germany dominating large spells of the match, it was Kylian Mbappe who broke the deadlock just before half-time with a brilliant right-footed curler-his 50th goal for France.

The hosts created numerous chances throughout, but were denied by some outstanding saves from Mike Maignan and the woodwork. VAR overturned a German equaliser early in the second half, citing a foul in the build-up. Moments later, France nearly doubled their lead with close chances from Cherki and Thuram.

Ter Stegen kept Germany in the contest with multiple top saves, including one to deny Mbappe's volley. But in the 83rd minute, a German defensive error allowed Mbappe through on goal, and he selflessly squared it for Michael Olise to tap home and seal the win.

France's clinical presence of mind and solid defending earned them a deserved victory, while Germany were left ruing missed chances and disallowed goals.

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Germany, playing on home turf, suffered a narrow 2-1 loss to Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo's late goal proved decisive, denying the hosts a place in the final and leaving Die Mannschaft disappointed after a performance that lacked cohesion and sharpness. Despite the setback, Germany will look to use their home advantage to bounce back and end their campaign positively.

France, on the other hand, endured a rollercoaster semifinal against reigning champions Spain in a high-scoring thriller. After conceding four goals within the first 30 minutes, Les Bleus staged a remarkable comeback, scoring four themselves to level the match.

However, Spain managed to edge out a 5-4 victory in what was one of the most dramatic games of the tournament. The French squad now aims to recover from this heart-breaking loss and finish their Nations League journey on a strong note.

Sunday's match may not carry the same stakes as the final, but it presents both teams with a valuable chance to showcase their depth and regain some momentum. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann hinted at some changes to the lineup, with several squad players expected to get an opportunity to impress.

Niclas Fullkrug could replace Nick Woltemade in attack, while Pascal Gross might come in to bolster the midfield defensively. Additionally, Robin Gosens and Serge Gnabry are competing for starting spots as Nagelsmann seeks to refresh the team.

France will be without Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola, who have withdrawn from the squad, as well as centre-back Clement Lenglet, sidelined due to a hip problem. Young forward Rayan Cherki impressed as a substitute against Spain and is pushing for a starting role. Manager Didier Deschamps may rotate the squad, with Lucas Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani among the players likely to be considered.

While the third-place match lacks the glory of the final, both Germany and France will be eager to finish the tournament with a win and build confidence for upcoming challenges.