Spain have defeated Germany 2-1 in their Euro 2024 Quarter Final fixture, with Mikel Merino scoring the winning goal in the 118th minute. The midfielder headed the ball into the back of the net after being left unmarked in the box, and eliminating the hosts in the process.
Germany have no one but themselves to blame for their defeat, with Kai Havertz and Niclas Fullkrug both missing a number of chances throughout the game.
Florian Wirtz stepped up yet again to offer his side a fighting chance with an 89th minute equaliser. However, it just wasn’t meant to be for the hosts.
Germany eliminated from Euro 2024 by Spain
The refs didn’t call this a hand ball on Spain. If this isn’t a hand ball, idk what is… 🤦♂️🤦♂️ #Germany #Spain #EURO2024 ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/GJF2u3yOZg
— 49ers & NFL News 24/7 (@49ersSportsTalk) July 5, 2024
Havertz missed an open net from distance, after Unai Simon charged out. Similarly, a number of chances fell to Fullkrug after he came off the bench. The Dortmund striker just couldn’t find the back of the net, in spite of a number of great chances in front of goal.
Dani Olmo’s introduction changed the course of the game, after the RB Leipzig forward was brought on for the injured Pedri. The substitute opened the scoring and assisted Mikel Merino’s header in the dying minutes of the game.
OFFICIAL: Toni Kroos leaves professional football.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 5, 2024
Thanks for everything from football fans, Toni. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/gNGGxwJc9O
Spain’s forwards displayed their incredible footwork time and time again, but lacked composure in front of goal. In the end, it took a miracle to end the game in 120 minutes, as the game looked set for penalties.
Dani Carvajal and Alvaro Morata will miss the semifinal with the former sent off, while Morata has accumulated too many yellow cards. Germany, on the other hand, must be proud of their performance, as Toni Kroos bids farewell to the beautiful game.
Julian Nagelsmann’s side have put up an incredible display, and are bowing out against perhaps the best team at the tournament in a valiant effort.
Who will Spain face in the semifinals?
Either Portugal or France
