Julian Nagelsmann lauds Cristiano Ronaldo’s dedication and fitness after Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League semi-final win over Germany.
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Portugal defeat Germany 2-1 in Nations League semisNagelsmann admits Germany fell shortRonaldo’s goal a result of hard work, 'not by chance'Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Portugal stunned Germany with a 2-1 win in the Nations League semi-final, knocking out the tournament hosts in Munich. The four-time World champions took the lead through a well-directed header from Florian Wirtz, but Portugal hit back quickly with Francisco Conceicao equalising before the Portuguese star netted the winner right five minutes later. It was Ronaldo's first-ever international win over Germany after five straight defeats.
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Germany boss Nagelsmann admitted Portugal “deserved” the win and revealed he would have to “speak to some players” after a performance that lacked full commitment from certain individuals. He may hold Ronaldo up as an example for them to follow as he heaped praise on the the 40-year-old superstar, who scored his 137th international goal to take his career tally to a whopping 937.
AFPWHAT NAGELSMANN SAID
On CR7’s performance, Nagelsmann offered praise and acknowledged the veteran’s continued excellence: "At 40, Ronaldo has a great body and he invests a lot in it. He invests a lot in himself and the result is there for all to see. He scored a goal, it's not by chance."
Die Mannschaft's coach admitted his team were second best on the night, adding: "It was a deserved victory for Portugal. They were better than us. We gave everything in the first half, but if we are not at 100 percent, we cannot compete with the best teams."
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
Ronaldo’s club future remains uncertain after his contract with Al-Nassr expired this summer. Reports linked him to Brazilian side Botafogo and a possible short-term Club World Cup stint. However, multiple reports now suggest Ronaldo could extend his stay at Al-Nassr until he turns 42.
