Germany vs Italy Lineups – Predicted XIs, Injuries, Formations for Nations League QF

Germany and Italy prepare for a pivotal second-leg encounter in the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 quarter-final, with the hosts holding a narrow advantage following a dramatic first-leg victory in Milan. The match at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund carries significant implications for both sides as they vie for a place in the semi-finals.

Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany secured a 2-1 comeback win at San Siro, with Tim Kleindienst and Leon Goretzka finding the net after Italy had taken an early lead. The result leaves Germany in a strong position, though Luciano Spalletti’s side will arrive in Dortmund with renewed determination to overturn the deficit on foreign soil.

Both teams navigate notable injury concerns heading into the encounter, with several key players unavailable for selection. The tactical battle promises to centre on Germany’s attacking pace against Italy’s midfield resilience, a contrast that has defined their recent meetings in this competition.

What are the predicted lineups for Germany vs Italy?

Ahead of the second-leg clash at Signal Iduna Park, multiple sources have published their predicted starting elevens for both sides. While official confirmed lineups remain available through UEFA’s official channels, pre-match predictions offer insight into the likely XI each manager will field.

• Germany hold a 2-1 aggregate lead after the first leg in Milan
• Leon Goretzka named man of the match in the first encounter, scoring the winner
• Germany average higher WhoScored ratings (6.8) compared to Italy (6.4) in recent matches
• Italy remain winless in their last seven meetings with Germany
• Both teams favour a three-man defensive line, though Germany’s formation may shift to 4-2-3-1
• Germany’s attacking pace features players like Adeyemi and Sané against Italy’s midfield control
• Sandro Tonali has contributed 2 goals and 2 assists in this Nations League campaign for Italy

According to multiple preview sources, Germany’s most widely predicted XI features Oliver Baumann in goal, with Joshua Kimmich, Antonio Rüdiger, Nico Schlotterbeck, and David Raum comprising the backline. Leon Goretzka and Pascal Gross or Robert Andrich anchor the midfield, while Jamal Musiala operates behind striker Tim Kleindienst, flanked by Leroy Sané and either Karim Adeyemi or Dennis Leweling on the wings.

Italy’s predicted lineup centres on Gianluigi Donnarumma between the posts, with Alessandro Bastoni and either Alessandro Buongiorno or Riccardo Calafiori forming the central defensive partnership alongside Giovanni Di Lorenzo. The midfield trio of Nicolò Barella, Sandro Tonali, and either Tommaso Ricci or Davide Frattesi provides the foundation, while Udogie features as left wing-back. Up front, Moise Kean leads the line supported by Giacomo Raspadori.

Who are the key injured players and team news for Germany vs Italy?

Both national teams enter the second-leg encounter with significant injury concerns that have shaped their respective squad selections and tactical preparations. The absences affect different areas of the pitch for each side, creating distinct challenges for both coaching staffs.

Germany’s injury situation has forced Julian Nagelsmann to adjust his plans considerably. Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen remains sidelined with a knee injury sustained earlier in the season, leaving Oliver Baumann to continue between the posts. The absence of creative midfielder Florian Wirtz has pushed Jamal Musiala into a more central role, where he is expected to shoulder additional playmaking responsibilities.

Further absences include Kai Havertz, who had been rotation options in attack, Benjamin Henrichs at full-back, and midfielders Felix Nmecha and Aleksandar Pavlović. New call-up Yann Bisseck provides additional defensive cover following his inclusion in the latest squad announcement. Leon Goretzka, recalled after a prolonged absence, made an immediate impact in the first leg, scoring the decisive goal that secured Germany’s aggregate lead.

For Italy, the injury to Federico Dimarco at left wing-back represents a significant tactical blow. Spalletti must find an alternative solution for the defensive flank, with Destiny Udogie likely shifting to that side or Zaccagni potentially featuring after recovering from his own fitness concerns. Striker Mateo Retegui’s absence means Raspadori or Kean will lead the line, though Spalletti has expressed confidence in his attacking options.

Goalkeeper situation for Germany

Marc-André ter Stegen’s continued absence has solidified Oliver Baumann’s position as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper for this international window. Baumann performed admirably in the first leg, making crucial saves to preserve Germany’s narrow advantage. His experience in the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim provides a solid foundation, though the pressure of Signal Iduna Park’s atmosphere will test his composure.

Italy’s midfield options

Nicolò Barella’s fitness has been a talking point, with reports suggesting the midfielder is pushing for a starting role after coming off the bench in the first leg. His partnership with Sandro Tonali in the centre of the park forms the backbone of Italy’s tactical approach. Whether Spalletti opts for Barella from the start or introduces him during the match could significantly impact Italy’s ability to control proceedings.

What formations will Germany and Italy use?

The tactical landscape for this encounter features distinct formation philosophies that reflect each team’s strengths and the specific demands of overturning or preserving a first-leg deficit. Both managers have shown flexibility in their preferred shapes, adapting to available personnel and opponent analysis.

Germany’s potential shift to a 4-2-3-1 would see Joshua Kimmich operating at right-back alongside Antonio Rüdiger in the centre of defence, with Nico Schlotterbeck or Jonathan Tah completing the back four. Pascal Gross and Leon Goretzka would screen the defence in the double pivot, providing defensive solidity while allowing the attacking quartet ahead to express themselves freely.

The alternative 3-4-2-1 mirrors Italy’s structure, with three centre-backs providing a numerical advantage against Italy’s front two. In this setup, wing-backs Kimmich and David Raum would push high and wide, creating width while the two attacking midfielders Musiala and Sané operate between the lines behind Kleindienst.

Italy’s commitment to the 3-5-2 creates natural width through Di Lorenzo and Udogie as wing-backs, though Dimarco’s absence complicates this plan. Should Udogie shift to the left flank, Cambiaso or Bellanova could feature on the right side. The midfield trio of Barella, Tonali, and either Ricci or Frattesi provides ball-winning capability and progressive passing, while Kean and Raspadori form an effective partnership in attack.

Tactical matchup: Germany’s pace vs Italy’s control

The fundamental tactical battle centres on Germany’s explosive attacking pace, particularly through Adeyemi and Sané on the counter-attack, against Italy’s desire to dominate midfield control through Tonali and Barella. Germany will likely look to exploit space behind Italy’s advancing wing-backs, while Italy seek to monopolise possession and limit Germany’s transition opportunities.

What is the head-to-head record and key match details for Germany vs Italy?

Germany and Italy share one of European football’s most storied rivalries, with both nations having won the European Championship four times. Their Nations League quarter-final represents the latest chapter in a relationship that has produced memorable encounters across major tournaments and qualifiers.

Recent meetings have favoured Germany, with Italy failing to win any of their last seven encounters across all competitions. The first leg result extends this run, leaving Italy with an uphill task to overturn the deficit on German soil. Spalletti’s side have struggled to contain Germany’s attacking combinations, particularly in the decisive moments of tight matches.

The match takes place at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, one of Europe’s most atmospheric venues with a capacity exceeding 81,000 spectators. The home crowd has proven a significant factor in Germany’s recent Nations League performances, creating an intimidating environment for visiting sides. Germany have won both their home Nations League matches this campaign, demonstrating their ability to convert home advantage into results.

Key players to watch

Jamal Musiala has emerged as Germany’s creative focal point in the absence of Florian Wirtz, operating in central areas where his dribbling ability and vision can unlock defences. His understanding with Leon Goretzka, who scored in the first leg, provides a dangerous connection that Italy must neutralise. Tim Kleindienst, the scorer of Germany’s first-leg opener, offers a focal point in attack that differs from Germany’s more pace-oriented options.

For Italy, Sandro Tonali represents their most productive player in this Nations League campaign, contributing two goals and two assists across the competition. His ability to arrive in the box at the right moments and his set-piece delivery make him a constant threat. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma’s shot-stopping will be crucial if Italy are to keep pace with Germany’s attacking threat, while Alessandro Bastoni anchors a defence that must remain disciplined throughout.

Timeline: Build-up to Germany vs Italy second leg

The journey to this decisive second-leg encounter has featured several significant moments that have shaped both teams’ preparations and the tactical context for Wednesday’s match.

1. First leg in Milan: Germany secured a 2-1 comeback victory at San Siro, with Kleindienst and Goretzka scoring after Italy had taken an early lead.
2. Goretzka’s recall: The Bayern Munich midfielder returned to the national team setup after a prolonged absence, immediately justifying his inclusion with a match-winning performance.
3. Italy’s failed attempts: Spalletti’s side created chances but failed to convert, extending their winless streak against Germany.
4. Germany’s injury concerns: Multiple absentees emerged during training, forcing Nagelsmann to adjust his squad composition.
5. Signal Iduna Park preparations: Germany arrived in Dortmund for final preparations, with the squad training at their base camp.
6. Official lineup confirmation: UEFA confirmed that official starting lineups would be published through their official channels closer to kickoff.

What information is confirmed versus still unclear for Germany vs Italy?

As with any sporting encounter approaching kickoff, certain information has been definitively established while other aspects remain subject to confirmation or dependent on late fitness assessments.

Background and significance of Germany vs Italy Nations League clash

The UEFA Nations League has added a new dimension to international football competitions, creating meaningful matches outside traditional tournament windows. For Germany and Italy, this quarter-final represents an opportunity to reach the last four for the third consecutive edition of the competition, with both nations having established themselves as consistent performers in this format.

Germany’s progression this campaign has featured impressive home performances, with Signal Iduna Park providing a fortress-like atmosphere that has yielded positive results. The combination of tactical discipline under Nagelsmann and the individual quality of players like Musiala and Kimmich has created a team capable of competing on multiple fronts simultaneously.

Italy’s situation requires a positive result in Dortmund, a venue that has historically posed significant challenges for visiting sides. Spalletti has implemented an attacking philosophy during his tenure, though the defensive organisation traditionally associated with Italian football remains evident. The balance between these approaches will determine whether Italy can achieve the comeback required to advance.

For more context on major international football competitions, see the UEFA Champions League Standings – 2024-25 League Phase Table.

Summary and what to expect from Germany vs Italy

Germany approach Wednesday’s encounter with a decisive advantage, holding both an aggregate lead and home advantage simultaneously. Their injury concerns are significant but manageable, with adequate replacements available throughout the squad. The expected formation flexibility between 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-2-1 provides Nagelsmann with tactical options to respond to Italy’s approach.

Italy must produce an exceptional performance to overturn the deficit, requiring goals while maintaining defensive stability against Germany’s potent attack. Spalletti’s tactical adjustments, particularly regarding the left wing-back position in Dimarco’s absence, will be scrutinised carefully. The quality of Tonali and Barella in midfield offers Italy their best opportunity to control proceedings and create scoring chances.

For detailed match statistics and player performance data, the San Antonio Spurs vs Lakers Match Player Stats – 2024 Box Scores & Highlights resource demonstrates how detailed statistical analysis can provide additional context for sporting encounters.

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