German national team striker Florian Wirtz (22, Bayer Leverkusen) lost his composure after being provoked by Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva (31, Manchester City).
Wirtz started the UEFA Nations League semifinals against Portugal on the 5th (Korea time) at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, and scored the opening goal in the 3rd minute of the second half.
However, Germany suffered a comeback loss to Portugal by 1-2, unable to defend Wirtz's opening goal. They could not stop the equalizing goal by Francisco Conceição in the 18th and 23rd minutes, and Cristiano Ronaldo's (Al Nassr) go-ahead goal.
Wirtz showed his dissatisfaction by stepping on Silva's foot in the 38th minute of the second half, when they were trailing 1-2. He was also seen forcibly pulling up Silva, who had fallen while screaming. Subsequently, the Portuguese players protested vigorously, and Wirtz received a yellow card.
The reason Wirtz stepped on Silva's foot was revealed in a post-match interview. Silva continued to provoke Wirtz with comments, and Wirtz exploded after losing his temper.
According to the social media account 'Mia San Mia,' which deals with news about the German national team and Bayern Munich, Silva smiled and said, 'I didn't know Wirtz would get angry. I just said, “Rayan Cherki (22, Lyon) is a better player than you.”'
In response, Wirtz explained his clash with Silva: 'At first, Silva said, “You are an overrated player,” but I didn’t react. Then he said, “You are a has-been player,” but I still didn’t react.'
Wirtz continued, 'But then he said, “Rayan Cherki is better than me.” I couldn't hold back anymore and exploded.' Cherki is a French prospect from Lyon's youth academy, identified by Manchester City as a potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne.
The clash between Wirtz and Silva was one of the emotionally charged moments in the tense atmosphere of the match. It has also drawn intense reactions from fans on social media.
Liverpool fans, strongly consolidated with Wirtz, enthusiastically commented on social media, saying, 'Wirtz really shook Silva,' 'He hasn't even worn the Liverpool uniform yet, but he already dislikes Silva and Bruno,' and 'Just this scene alone will be worthy of a mural at Anfield.'
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