Prediction: Germany U21 vs France U21

Verdict: Germany win

Best odds: 6/4

Bookmaker: Olympusbet

Germany Under-21s and France Under-21s will battle it out for a spot in the final of the European Under-21 Championship when they meet in Kosice on Wednesday.

Antonio Di Salvo’s men advanced by edging past a nine-man Italy side in the quarterfinals, whereas France overturned a deficit to claim a comeback victory over Denmark in their last-eight encounter.

Germany

Germany are now just two matches away from clinching a record-equalling fourth UEFA Under-21 European Championship title, having previously triumphed in 2009, 2017, and 2021.

Antonio Di Salvo’s side began their 2025 campaign with a dominant 3-0 victory over Slovenia, followed by a 4-2 win against the Czech Republic, showcasing their attacking firepower. A 2-1 win over England on matchday three ensured they topped Group B with a perfect record—making them the only side to win all three group matches.

Their quarter-final meeting with Italy proved to be a dramatic affair. After Nick Woltemade cancelled out Luca Koleosho’s opener and Italy were reduced to 10 men through Willy Gnonto’s red card, Germany looked to be in control. A goal from Nelson Weiper and a second Italian dismissal for Mattia Zanotti seemed to seal the result, only for nine-man Italy to equalise deep into stoppage time and force extra-time. However, Germany held their nerve, with Merlin Rohl eventually netting the winner to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory.

Heading into the semifinals against France, Germany are riding a wave of momentum, unbeaten in 19 internationals since a defeat to England in their final group match at the 2023 tournament (W16, D3).

Team News

Germany Under-21 boss Di Salvo is expected to retain much of the side that edged past Italy in the quarter-finals, with Freiburg’s Noah Atubolu continuing in goal behind a likely back four of Nnamdi Collins, Max Rosenfelder, Bright Arrey-Mbi and Nathaniel Brown.

Nelson Weiper, who came off the bench to score in the last round, is pushing for a start ahead of Nicolo Tresoldi, while Nick Woltemade – the tournament’s current top scorer with five goals and three assists in three games – will again spearhead the attack.

France

After consecutive quarterfinal exits in the last two editions, France Under-21s have finally broken through to the semifinals of the European Championship for the first time since 2019, as they look to end a 37-year wait for the title last lifted in 1988.

Les Bleuets began their 2025 campaign with a goalless stalemate against eventual group winners Portugal, before edging past co-hosts Georgia 3-2 thanks to two late goals in a dramatic finish. A more comfortable 4-1 win over Poland followed on matchday three, though France had to settle for second place in Group C due to an inferior goal difference.

Their quarterfinal encounter with Denmark once again highlighted their fighting spirit. Trailing 2-1 heading into the final 10 minutes, Gerald Baticle’s men struck twice in quick succession—Quentin Merlin equalized in the 84th minute before Tottenham forward Mathys Tel grabbed the decisive goal just one minute later to seal a 3-2 victory.

France now head into the semifinals in strong form, having won six of their last seven internationals and remained unbeaten in eight since a 2-1 defeat to Austria last October. Their attacking prowess has been key, with the team scoring at least two goals in seven of those eight matches—including a comeback 2-2 draw in a November friendly against their upcoming opponents, Germany.

Team News

For France, head coach Gerald Baticle is expected to stick with a settled defence featuring Ismael Doukoure, Chrislain Matsima, Castello Lukeba and Quentin Merlin, the latter of whom was on target in the quarterfinal win over Denmark.

In-form Desire Doue Cisse of Rennes looks set to make a third straight start after tallying three goals and an assist in his last two outings. Meanwhile, Thierno Barry could be recalled to add fresh legs up front, as Baticle considers his options in attack for what promises to be a high-stakes semi-final showdown.

Conclusion

Wednesday’s semifinal promises to be a compelling showdown, with both Germany and France Under-21s entering the contest in excellent form and brimming with belief.

France’s attacking quality is undeniable, especially with the likes of Mathys Tel and Cisse in form, but Germany’s unmatched consistency and 19-match unbeaten run provide a solid foundation for success. Their ability to edge close games – as shown against Italy – could prove decisive once again.

Verdict: Germany win

Best odds: 6/4

Bookmaker: Olympusbet