Spain proved bookmakers right and kept themselves on course to win a fourth European Championship after defeating host Germany 2-1 thanks to a Mikel Merino’s 119th-minute goal
This was the most anticipated match of the tournament so far as it put together the resurgent home nation against arguably the best-performing side to date at Euro 2024 – and it certainly lived up to expectation.
The substitute side-footed home a cross from 16-year-old star Lamine Yamal – his third assist of the Euros – and his strike opened up a game that had been played with caution until then.
Germany hit the post through their own substitute Niclas Fullkrug, but equalised in the final minute of normal time when Florian Wirtz sent a thunderous strike in off the post to send the home fans wild.
But with seconds remaining of a thrilling tie, Real Sociedad forward Merino – who spent the 2017-18 season at Newcastle United – thumped home a header to send Spain into the semi-finals, where they will face France
Full-back Dani Carvajal was sent off just before the end for a second yellow card, but it was not enough to spoil the Spanish celebrations as fans and players greeted the final whistle with joy and relief.
This victory for Spain meant they remain unbeaten at Euro 2024 as they look to win the championship for the first time since 2012.
But this was the hardest they have had to work in the tournament, with Merino’s dramatic last-minute heroics ensuring they avoided the lottery of penalties.
Spain are arguably the most complete side at Euro 2024 and when Olmo opened the scoring it looked like they would have too much for Germany.
But their opponents pressed hard and that unsettled Spain, who rode their luck before Wirtz levelled.
Key to this victory was the contribution of their players from the bench and, with suspensions for Carvajal and Robin le Normand and the extent of Pedri’s early injury uncertain, that will serve Spain well in their bid to reach the final.
Germany out, but provide optimism for future
Media caption,
Wirtz scores late for Germany to force extra time
This was a cruel blow for Germany, whose fans inside the Stuttgart Arena really believed their side had enough to get over the line.
However, their exit meant no host nation has won a Euros since France triumphed back in 1984.
Euro 24: Spain Beat Host Germany To Qualify For Semi final
