Spain remains on track to win their fourth European Championship, thanks to Mikel Merino’s dramatic 119th-minute goal, which secured their spot in the semi-finals and eliminated hosts Germany in a thrilling match at Stuttgart Arena.
This highly anticipated clash featured the resurgent home nation against arguably the best-performing team at Euro 2024, and it certainly did not disappoint.
The match was filled with aggression, tension, and drama, captivating viewers from the moment Dani Olmo gave Spain the lead six minutes into the second half. Olmo, coming off the bench, side-footed a cross from 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who recorded his third assist of the tournament. This goal opened up a previously cautious game.
Germany nearly equalized when substitute Niclas Fullkrug hit the post, but they eventually drew level in the final minute of regular time. Florian Wirtz unleashed a powerful strike that went in off the post, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
In extra time, both Mikel Oyarzabal and Wirtz narrowly missed scoring, while Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simon made a spectacular save to deny a Fullkrug header. Germany’s penalty appeals were dismissed after the ball struck Marc Cucurella’s hand in the box.
With mere seconds left in this exhilarating tie, Real Sociedad’s Merino, who played for Newcastle United in the 2017-18 season, headed in the winning goal, sending Spain into the semi-finals to face France in Munich on Tuesday, July 9.
Despite full-back Dani Carvajal’s late red card for a second yellow, the Spanish celebrations were not dampened, with fans and players rejoicing at the final whistle.
Germany’s performance, featuring promising young talents like Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, offers hope for the future, despite recent disappointments in major tournaments. However, this future will not include legendary midfielder Toni Kroos, who has announced his retirement from football following this tournament.
Strength in depth sees Spain through
Spain’s victory keeps them unbeaten at Euro 2024 as they aim to win the championship for the first time since 2012.
This match proved to be their toughest challenge yet, with Merino’s dramatic last-minute goal preventing the need for a penalty shootout.
Spain is arguably the most complete side in the tournament, and when Olmo opened the scoring, it seemed they would overwhelm Germany. However, their opponents’ relentless pressure unsettled Spain, who had to rely on some luck before Wirtz equalized.
The contributions from Spain’s substitutes were crucial to this victory. With suspensions for Carvajal and Robin le Normand, and uncertainty about the extent of Pedri’s early injury, the depth of their squad will be vital as they continue their quest to reach the final.