It was Spain’s night in Stuttgart as they edged out hosts Germany with a 2-1 victory, securing their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals at the MHPArena. The German players and fans were left stunned, bowing out of the tournament and reflecting on missed opportunities.
The match also marked the end of Germany’s talismanic midfielder Toni Kroos’ international career, as he bid farewell on a somber note.
The high-voltage game saw both teams dominate in patches. Spain started with intensity, registering the first shot on target within two minutes. However, an early injury to Pedri forced head coach Luis de la Fuente to substitute him with Dani Olmo.
Despite dominating possession, Germany struggled to capitalize on their chances. Their first real opportunity came in the 21st minute, but Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simon denied Kai Havertz. Havertz had another chance 14 minutes later, but Simon once again made the save, and the play was eventually deemed offside.
Spain nearly broke the deadlock before halftime when Dani Olmo’s shot was parried by Manuel Neuer, only for Alvaro Morata’s follow-up to be blocked by defender Jonathan Tah.
Spain continued to pressure Germany in the second half, eventually finding a breakthrough in the 51st minute. Lamine Yamal set up Olmo, who slotted the ball into the net.
Germany, driven by their fans, sought an equalizer with renewed vigor. Robert Andrich forced a remarkable save from Simon, and Havertz’s efforts were thwarted by Dani Carvajal. Fullkrug struck the post, further frustrating Germany’s quest for an equalizer.
With just a minute left in regular time, Florian Wirtz struck with venom to equalize for Germany, sending the game into extra time.
The first period of extra time ended goalless, but Germany nearly took the lead when Simon made an exceptional save from Fullkrug. Just as the game seemed destined for penalties, Mikel Merino produced a late moment of magic, scoring to give Spain a 2-1 lead. In the final moments, Carvajal received his second yellow card, leaving Spain with 10 men, but they held on for the win.
Spain’s victory was sealed, and they now advance to the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
