Late Drama Sees La Roja Edge Out Hosts in Epic Quarterfinal

Spain 2-1 Germany (AET): Late Drama

In a thrilling Euro 2024 quarterfinal, Spain eliminated hosts Germany after extra time. Dani Olmo's early second-half goal was countered by Florian Wirtz's last-minute equalizer, but Mikel Merino’s 119th-minute header secured Spain’s spot in the semifinals.

The Match

Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, fielded a 4-3-3 formation, featuring Unai Simon in goal, with Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, and Cucurella in defense. Rodri, Pedri, and Fabian Ruiz controlled the midfield, while Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Alvaro Morata formed the attacking trio.

Olmo substituted an injured Pedri in the 8th minute, a crucial change as Olmo scored Spain’s first goal in the 51st minute from a Yamal assist. Germany, managed by Julian Nagelsmann, had Neuer in goal, with Raum, Tah, Rudiger, and Kimmich at the back. Kroos and Can were in midfield, while Sane, Gundogan, and Musiala supported Havertz upfront.

The game saw balanced possession, with Spain slightly ahead at 52%. Spain threatened early, with Yamal and Williams missing key opportunities. Germany responded with Havertz forcing saves from Simon. Spain's Olmo finally broke the deadlock, but Germany equalized in the 89th minute through Wirtz, who capitalized on a Kimmich assist.

Extra time was intense, with both sides pushing for a winner. Germany’s Fullkrug hit the post, and Wirtz narrowly missed replicating his earlier success. Spain had a controversial moment when Cucurella’s handball wasn’t penalized, leading to heated debate. However, Spain capitalized on a late chance, with Olmo assisting Merino’s decisive goal.

Key Moments

• 51st minute: Olmo scores for Spain from a Yamal assist.
• 89th minute: Wirtz equalizes for Germany.
• 119th minute: Merino heads in the winner for Spain.
• 125th minute: Carvajal earns a second yellow card, missing the semifinal.

Controversies

Germany’s penalty appeal in extra time, when Cucurella’s handball went unpunished, sparked debate. Referee Anthony Taylor and VAR Stuart Attwell faced criticism for this decision, as well as their handling of Rodri’s earlier foul in Spain’s opener against Croatia. These decisions reflect ongoing concerns about officiating standards in major tournaments.

Aftermath

Spain now prepares for a semifinal clash against France, who beat Portugal on penalties. German fans are left disappointed as the host nation's dream of being continental champions ends.

This match showcased the unpredictability and excitement of Euro 2024, with Spain emerging victorious in a contest filled with drama, controversy, and exceptional football.