Italy took an early lead in the ninth minute when Sandro Tonali capitalized on a pass from Matteo Politano, finding the net past goalkeeper Oliver Baumann. Despite dominating possession, Germany struggled to break through Italy's defense in the first half.
The momentum shifted in the second half with the introduction of substitute Tim Kleindienst, who headed in Joshua Kimmich's precise cross in the 49th minute to level the score. Germany continued to press, and in the 76th minute, Leon Goretzka scored the decisive goal, slightly redirecting Kimmich's corner with a glancing header.
Italy sought an equalizer, but Baumann's crucial saves preserved Germany's lead. The second leg is scheduled for Sunday in Dortmund, with the aggregate winner earning the right to host the Nations League semi-finals and finals in June.
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