Germany vs Portugal: Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play in Today's Nations League Semifinal?

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The UEFA Nations League semi-final between Portugal and Germany is scheduled to take place at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Wednesday (June 4). This high-profile clash will see Germany take on a Portugal team filled with stars. With anticipation running high, the key question remains: will Cristiano Ronaldo play today?

Ronaldo has been in a good form during the 2024-25 season, netting 35 goals in 39 matches across all competitions for Al-Nassr and scoring six times in the UEFA Nations League, making him one of the tournament’s top five scorers. In the second leg of Portugal’s quarter-final clash with Denmark on March 23, 2025, Ronaldo scored a vital goal despite an earlier penalty miss, helping his team clinch a 5-2 win (5-3 on aggregate) to reach the semi-finals.

Germany’s captain, Joshua Kimmich, has praised Ronaldo’s threat, citing his “insane” tally of 136 goals in 220 international caps and calling him a “very special player.” Germany's manager, Julian Nagelsmann, also commended Ronaldo’s prowess, labeling him a "dangerous and extraordinary" footballer.

Germany vs Portugal: Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play Today’s Nations Cup Match?

The Portuguese skipper was named in the 27-man squad for the Nations League finals, and various reports have indicated he is likely to start. Despite questions surrounding his fitness and an expiring contract with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s selection underlines his lasting value to the national team.

However, Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, has quashed all rumors by confirming Cristiano Ronaldo is fit and ready for the semi-final against Germany. Even after turning 40 in February 2025 and skipping Al-Nassr’s recent fixtures due to alleged fatigue, Martinez stressed Ronaldo’s availability, declaring, “Regarding Cristiano’s fitness, he is available to play. There’s no problem.”

Ronaldo is expected to spearhead Portugal’s frontline, flanked by Rafael Leao and Bruno Fernandes in a 4-3-3 setup. The midfield trio will likely feature Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and Joao Neves, while the backline is set to include Diogo Dalot, Ruben Dias, Goncalo Inacio, and Nuno Mendes, with Diogo Costa guarding the net.