In a thrilling quarterfinal clash at MHP Arena in Stuttgart, Spain triumphed over Germany with a 2-1 victory, securing their place in the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
Both teams produced a spectacle that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The match was charged with intensity and high stakes.
Germany, playing on home soil, were buoyed by the passionate support of their fans, creating an electric atmosphere.
Spain, however, demonstrated no signs of intimidation, matching their opponents’ energy with disciplined play and swift, incisive attacks.
The deadlock was broken in the 51st minute when Spanish winger Lamine Yamal delivered a pinpoint through ball to Dani Olmo, who expertly slotted it past German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, giving Spain a 1-0 lead.
Germany responded with vigour, and their efforts paid off just on the stroke of regulation 90 minutes to make it one all.
The teams headed into the break on equal terms, setting the stage for a dramatic extra 30 minutes.
Desperate to avoid elimination, Germany threw everything forward in the final minutes but Spanish defense withstood the German onslaught until Olmo clipped an inviting cross towards the penalty spot, and substitute Merino duly nodded past Neuer to make it 2-1.
Germany becomes the first-ever host nation to lose a European Championship quarter-final.
