Euro24 : Spain edges out hosts Germany 2-1 in last minute in a thriller , advances to semis

 

The Spain vs Germany quarter final was  one of the most awaited matches of the tournament & it truly lived upto its billing . Finally Spain snatched a last minute winner in the extra time to break Germany hearts . 

Both teams were brimming with new stars, showcasing speed and skill that tore their opponents apart. Despite Spain and Germany meeting in the quarter-finals, it was considered the toughest match of Euro Cup 2024. The battle extended beyond national pride, with club teammates from Real Madrid and Barcelona facing off on the Euro stage. Ultimately, Spain triumphed in this clash. La Roja defeated Germany in the last minute of extra time to reach the semi-finals.

The excitement of club football was evident in the first eight minutes of the match, after which Spain began to control the game. Yamal and Niko's tandem had not yet fully engaged, nor had Sane and Musiala from Germany found their rhythm. During this time, a tackle by Tony Kroos took down Pedri, evoking memories of clashes between Real Madrid and Barcelona stars. The injury was severe enough to force the 21-year-old Spanish star off the field. The situation intensified when Rudiger received a yellow card for a foul on a goal-bound attack.The Despise the setback, La Roja continued their onslaught, while Germany's Kai Havertz had a scoring opportunity.

Both teams made several changes in the second half to shift the momentum, and the effects were immediate. In the 47th minute, Yamal nearly set up a goal for Morata, but the Spain captain missed the target. Dani Olmo, who replaced the injured Pedri, soon scored the crucial goal, with Yamal assisting, marking his third assist in the Euro. Yamal's low cross from the left found Olmo, who finished with perfect placement.

After conceding, Germany woke up, launching a series of attacks on Spain's goal. However, Spain's defence, led by goalkeeper Unai Simon, held firm. Fulkrug's shot hit the bar, and Havertz missed several chances. Germany's relentless efforts paid off in the 89th minute when Florian Wirtz scored, thanks to an assist from Kimmich.

The match ended 1-1 in regular time, with Spain having substituted Nico and Yamal by then. Despite their absence, Spain continued their attacks. Germany also launched numerous counterattacks, with Wirtz narrowly missing the target. A controversial penalty appeal from Germany was rejected, which could have ended the match. Drama unfolded in extra time, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in the 119th minute, heading in a cross from Dani Olmo. Neur could only watch as the ball found the net. Despite Dani Carvajal receiving a red card for blocking Musiala, Spain secured their place in the semi-finals but not before a few anxious moments .

Both teams saw several yellow cards in this match and now that Spain have reached the semis , they will be without many of their top stars .

For Germany, this match marked the end of an era, as Toni Kroos played his last game for the national team. The departure of other stalwarts like Muller might soon follow. Germany not only bid farewell to the tournament but also signaled the end of a significant chapter in their football history.