Germany triumphs in the semi-finals of the U21 European Championship: 3-0 against France!
Germany defeated France 3-0 in the semi-finals of the 2025 U21 European Championship and met England in the final. Goal scorers and lineups in focus.

Germany triumphs in the semi-finals of the U21 European Championship: 3-0 against France!
It was a memorable evening for the German U21 national team, which triumphed with a clear 3-0 over France in the semi-finals of the U21 European Championship in Slovakia. Coach Antonio di Salvo's team demonstrated from the first minute that they are determined to win the title. In the 8th minute, Nelson Weiper gave Germany the lead with a precise shot. Just six minutes later, Nick Woltemade made it 2-0. The French were unable to find an answer in the first half and were often uninspired in their attacking efforts.
After the break, France pressed for the next goal, but the German defense, led by a strong goalkeeper Noah Atubolu, held firm. Atubolu, who celebrated his 21st appearance for the U21s and became the DFB's record goalkeeper, saved numerous dangerous shots, including one from Thierno Barry that even hit the post. In stoppage time, Brajan Gruda finished off the game with another goal, which was awarded after a VAR review.
The final in sight
With this convincing victory, Germany advances to the final where they will face England, who defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in a thrilling semi-final, on June 28, 2025. The German team's performances so far at this European Championship underline their ambitions: just four games, four wins. In addition to the victory over France, they also won 2-1 against England in the group stage.
The German line-up looked like this: Atubolu – Collins, Rosenfelder (Oermann), Arrey-Mbi, Brown – Martel, Reitz, Knauff, Woltemade, Nebel – Weiper. Max Rosenfelder was injured and had to be substituted in the first half. The record against France, which clearly speaks to the French with six wins from 14 duels, was boosted by this brilliant victory.
Outlook for the final
Nelson Weiper is optimistic for the final, while Nick Woltemade notices his tiredness. The question remains: Does Germany have the strength and ability to win the title? Coach Antonio di Salvo is confident about the recovery of his players before the playoff. The entire team prepared well for the games and faces a major challenge that doesn't occur too often in German football history.
The U21s have already celebrated successes in the past and could build on their previous triumphs in 2009, 2017 and 2021 with another title. What will be the outcome of the match against England? The tension is rising and the football community is looking forward to the big finale.
For detailed information and current developments on the games and goal scorers, visit the coverage of giessener-anzeiger.de, sportschau.de and olympics.com.