The quarter-finals of EURO 2024 featured two thrilling matches on Friday, with four top teams competing for a spot in the semi-finals. The excitement in Germany was palpable as Spain secured their place in the semi-final in the most dramatic fashion, edging out Germany with a last-minute goal to win 2-1.
The match began with an early setback for Spain, as key midfielder Pedri was forced off the field after a heavy challenge from Germany’s Toni Kroos just seven minutes into the game.
Despite this early disruption, both teams initially struggled to gain control and establish dominance during the first half. However, Spain found their breakthrough when Dani Olmo, who had replaced the injured Pedri, scored. Olmo capitalized on a precise pass from the young talent Lamine Yamal, slotting the ball neatly into the bottom corner.
Germany responded with determination. Unai Simon, Spain’s goalkeeper, had to make a crucial save from a long-range effort by Robert Andrich.
Niclas Füllkrug also came close to scoring for Germany, hitting the post following a cross from Florian Wirtz. Germany’s pressure continued with Kai Havertz almost netting an audacious chip over Simon, which narrowly missed the target.
As the match neared its conclusion, Germany’s persistence paid off. With only minutes remaining before their potential exit from the tournament, Toni Kroos delivered a lofted cross to the back post.
Joshua Kimmich headed the ball back across the goal, where Florian Wirtz was perfectly positioned to drive it into the bottom corner, bringing the score level and sending the game into extra time.
During extra time, the tension remained high. Wirtz came agonizingly close to scoring again, his shot missing the post by mere centimeters. Controversy struck when Spain’s Marc Cucurella appeared to handle the ball inside the penalty area, but the incident was not deemed a penalty by the officials.
The match took another dramatic turn as it seemed destined for penalties. Spain’s Mikel Merino made a decisive impact, rising above the defenders to head home a brilliant goal, giving Spain the lead just as the game was heading towards a penalty shootout. The breathtaking finish saw another close call for Germany when Füllkrug’s powerful header went just inches wide.
In the final moments, Spain’s Dani Carvajal was sent off, adding to the drama, but the Spanish team held on to their slender lead. Spain’s victory secured their place in the semi-finals, ending a pulsating match filled with twists, near-misses, and heroic efforts from both sides. The clash between Spain and Germany was a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of EURO 2024.