Spain Strikes Late to Eliminate Hosts Germany in Extra Time
In a dramatic Euro 2024 quarterfinal clash on Friday, Spain defeated hosts Germany 2-1 in extra time, with a late goal from Mikel Merino sealing their victory. The match, held at a raucous Stuttgart Arena, saw Spain advance to the semifinals in what will be remembered as one of the tournament’s most enthralling encounters.
Spain dominated the first hour of play, consistently pressuring the German defense and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their efforts paid off six minutes into the second half when Dani Olmo drilled a first-time shot into the bottom corner, giving Spain a well-deserved lead.
Despite Spain’s dominance, Germany showed resilience and determination. In a desperate bid to find an equalizer, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann made five substitutions, which ultimately paid off in the 89th minute. Florian Wirtz, the Bundesliga’s player of the year for champions Bayer Leverkusen, hammered home a shot from Joshua Kimmich’s header, forcing the match into extra time.
As extra time seemed destined to lead to a penalty shootout, Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s hero. In the 119th minute, Merino rose to head home the winning goal from Olmo’s cross, breaking the hearts of German fans who had packed the Stuttgart Arena.
Germany pushed hard for a late equalizer, but their efforts were thwarted when Spain’s full-back Dani Carvajal received a second yellow card for tackling Jamal Musiala, reducing Spain to ten men. Carvajal, along with center-back Robin Le Normand, will miss the semifinal due to suspension.
Despite the late drama, Spain held firm to secure their place in the last four, where they will face France, who played later on Friday. The match was a testament to the skill, determination, and resilience of both teams, but it was Spain who emerged victorious, keeping their hopes of another Euro Cup title alive.
