Spain vs Germany
Watch Spain vs Germany full match replay and highlight. This is a match of UEFA Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals.
Kick off: 16:00 GMT Friday Jul 5, 2024.
Referee: Anthony Taylor, England.
Venue: Stuttgart Arena, Stuttgart.
Mikel Merino’s Last-Gasp Strike Sends Spain to Euro 2024 Semi-Finals
In a dramatic showdown at UEFA Euro 2024, Mikel Merino’s last-minute goal secured a thrilling 2-1 victory for Spain over hosts Germany, edging La Roja closer to a record fourth European Championship title.
Match Overview
This highly anticipated rematch of the 2008 final saw Spain nearly open the scoring within the first minute, with Pedri’s low shot from the edge of the area saved by Manuel Neuer. Spain’s attacking trio of Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, and Fabián Ruiz attempted long-range efforts, while Germany’s Kai Havertz tested Unai Simón with a close-range header.
Despite numerous attempts from both sides, the first half ended goalless, with notable saves from both goalkeepers. Dani Olmo and Yamal were particularly impressive, but Neuer stood firm to keep the score level.
Second Half Action
Spain continued their dominance after the break, with Álvaro Morata missing a close-range opportunity. However, the breakthrough came in the 52nd minute when Yamal beat his defender and set up Olmo, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
Germany pressed hard for an equalizer in the final stages, with Havertz missing a crucial chance after intercepting a loose ball from Simón. Their persistence paid off in the dying moments when Florian Wirtz scored a stunning goal from Joshua Kimmich’s knockdown, sending the match into extra time.
Extra Time Drama
The extra time was tense, with both teams eyeing a semi-final berth against either Portugal or France. Mikel Oyarzabal and Wirtz had close attempts, and a penalty check for a handball against Marc Cucurella went unpunished, adding to the drama.
Just as penalties seemed inevitable, Olmo delivered a perfect cross in the 119th minute, and Merino headed it past Neuer to seal Spain’s victory. Despite some late drama, including Dani Carvajal’s red card and a missed header by Niclas Füllkrug, Germany couldn’t find an equalizer, becoming the first host nation to lose a European Championship quarter-final.
Conclusion
Spain’s victory ensures their place in the semi-finals for the fourth time in five tournaments, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess under pressure. The win sets up a tantalizing clash in the next round, keeping their hopes alive for another European Championship triumph.