Euro 2024: Spain qualifies for quarter-finals by beating Germany 2-1

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Spain have qualified for the semi-finals of Euro 2024 after beating Germany 2-1 in a tight match in Stuttgart that was only decided in extra time.

The Mannschaft confirmed their negative record against La Roja, whom they have not managed to beat in a major football tournament since Euro 88. The start of the match was difficult with fifteen fouls and three yellow cards in the first half alone.

Germany’s Toni Kroos got off lightly after two caution-worthy tackles in the opening ten minutes, one of which left Spain’s Pedri injured, who had to be replaced. Overall, it wasn’t a spectacular start, with two young stars Jamal Musiala and Lamine Yamal failing to make much of an impact, especially the Spaniard, who was able to play more of the ball.

Spain looked slightly more aggressive and organised than the hosts, particularly in their use of counter-attacks. However, it was the hosts who had the better chances in the first half, both through Kai Havertz. The Arsenal midfielder first tried with a powerful but poorly placed header in the 21st minute. Then he fired a shot in the 35th minute after superbly controlling a long ball from Rudiger from defence and past Le Normand.

Spain maintained the same dominant attitude in the second half and managed to convert in the 51st minute when substitute Dani Olmo beat Neuer with a low shot into the bottom left corner.

A breathtaking extension

Germany picked up the pace after conceding the goal, coming close to equalising in the 77th minute with a ball from Fullkrug that hit the post. Ten minutes later, Germany’s efforts were rewarded. Kimmich got past Cucurella and headed the ball into the middle of the box for Wirtz, who sent it past Spanish goalkeeper Simon into the bottom left corner.

Extra time was breathtaking with a multitude of chances on both sides. First, a precise shot from Spain’s Oyarzabal just wide of the post, followed by a very similar attempt from Germany’s Wirtz.

Germany seemed to have a slight advantage over Spain towards the end. First, they claimed a penalty for an alleged handball by Cucurella, then came close to scoring with a well-placed header from Fullkrug in the 107th minute, brilliantly saved by Simon. But it was Spain who ultimately produced the winner.

In the 119th minute, Dani Olmo sent a free-kick into the box and found Merino, who powerfully headed the ball past Neuer to take the lead 2-1 and seal the victory. It was also the last game for Germany legend, World Cup and Champions League winner Toni Kroos, who had previously announced his retirement after Euro 2024.