AFCON 2025
France and Germany booked their places in the UEFA Euro U-21 Championship semi-finals after dramatic 3–2 victories over Denmark and Italy, respectively.
Both matches delivered late drama, comebacks, and extra-time heroics, setting up a mouthwatering semi-final showdown between two of Europe’s most talented young sides.
France U-21 3–2 Denmark U-21
France completed a thrilling comeback to upset Denmark 3–2 in today’s Euro U‑21 playoff clash in Prešov, Slovakia.
Denmark struck early through Clement Bischoff, who capitalised on a French defensive error in the 18th minute. Oliver Sørensen doubled their lead shortly after the restart, nodding in a flick-on from Bischoff to make it 2–1 on 49 minutes.
France responded just before halftime, as Djaoui Cissé levelled with a composed finish in the 44th minute. That equaliser turbocharged Les Bleuets, and in a dramatic final ten minutes they snatched victory.
Quentin Merlin curled in a superb strike from just outside the area in the 84th minute, then Mathys Tel pounced on a Danish mistake the following minute to complete the 3–2 turnaround.
Germany 3–2 Italy (after extra time)
In their clash today, Germany edged past Italy in a dramatic showdown in Dunajská Streda. Italy took the lead midway through the second half via Luca Koleosho, but Germany responded swiftly.
Nick Woltemade nodded in the equalizer around the 68th minute and later assisted Nelson Weiper’s 87th-minute winner. Italy, though down to nine men after two late red cards, found hope deep in stoppage time when Giuseppe Ambrosino converted a free kick to force extra time.
In extra time, substitute Merlin Röhl emerged as the hero, firing Germany ahead for good and sealing a 3–2 victory.
Both sides will now face off in a semi-final clash on Wednesday.
