Spain prepare to host Germany in UEFA Nations League second-leg

Spain face Germany in the second leg of the UEFA Women’s Nations League Final following a 0-0 draw in the first meeting. The match will be played in Spain, giving the hosts a potentially crucial home advantage. Kick-off is at 17:30 BST, which is 18:30 local time in Madrid. 

📸via msn.com

Spain come into the game with three wins and two draws from their last five fixtures – one of those draws being the first leg of the final. They will be hopeful of retaining their title in front of their home crowd. Germany’s recent form is less convincing, with three draws in their last five and a 1-0 defeat to Spain during that run. Both sides know how tight the margins were in the opening leg. Spain had to absorb long spells of pressure, while Germany struck the woodwork and forced several excellent saves. Despite the defensive workload, Spain will expect to use the crowd in Madrid to change the tempo of the match. 

In head-to-head terms, Germany have the slight upper hand, winning three of the seven meetings between the teams. Even so, their last victory over Spain came back in 2024, and injuries have since altered the shape of their starting eleven – most notably the MCL injury to captain Giulia Gwinn. Spain also have a key absence, with Aitana Bonmatí ruled out after suffering a fractured leg earlier in the week. Losing such an influential midfielder is a huge setback and could allow Germany more freedom in central areas. Without Bonmatí’s control and creativity, Spain may be forced to play more directly or rely on transitions, which could leave them vulnerable to Germany’s aggressive press. 

Germany’s main challenge will be turning their chances into goals. They created enough opportunities to win the first leg but weren’t clinical when it mattered. If they can match their pressing and physical intensity with calmer decision-making in the final third, they should be able to put Spain’s defence under pressure. The return of several experienced players has strengthened the squad, although the absence of Gwinn’s leadership out wide is still noticeable. 

With both teams missing major figures and the aggregate score still level, the second leg is likely to take on a very different feel. Spain will want to take control early, while Germany may try to disrupt their rhythm and grow into the game. With so much on the line, the final is shaping up to be tight, tactical and emotionally charged.