Euro 2024: Merino's last gasp goal breaks German hearts as favourites Spain cruise

Euro 2024: Merino's last gasp goal breaks German hearts as favourites Spain cruise

Eric Munene 22:00 - 05.07.2024

Germany almost made it to penalties before Merino caught everyone off-guard.

Spain and Germany clashed in a thrilling Euro 2024 quarter-final that culminated in dramatic fashion.

La Roja, former champions from 16 years ago, and Die Mannschaft showcased their prowess in a tightly contested affair that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

The encounter began with early chances for both sides; Pedri of Spain tested Manuel Neuer with a low shot, while Kai Havertz threatened Unai Simón's goal with a close-range header for Germany.

As the first half progressed, Spain gained momentum, with Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal forcing Neuer into crucial saves to keep the scores level at halftime.

After the break, Spain continued their offensive onslaught, and their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute. Lamine Yamal's incisive play set up Dani Olmo, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner, giving Spain a crucial lead.

Germany responded vigorously, with Havertz missing a golden opportunity to equalize as his lob over Simón's charge sailed over the bar.

With the match heading into extra time, both teams battled intensely for a coveted semi-final spot. Mikel Oyarzabal and Florian Wirtz came close to altering the scoreline, but it was Spain who ultimately seized the moment.

In the dying moments of extra time, Dani Olmo delivered a pinpoint cross, met decisively by substitute Merino's header past Neuer, sending Spain into euphoria and securing their semi-final berth.

However, the drama wasn't over yet, as Germany pushed desperately for an equalizer. Niclas Füllkrug squandered a late chance, heading wide, and Dani Carvajal received a red card in injury time, adding suspense to the final moments.

Despite Germany's valiant efforts, they couldn't breach Spain's defense again, marking a historic exit for the host nation from the European Championship quarter-finals.

In the end, Spain's resilience and clinical finishing proved decisive, earning them a place in the semi-finals for the fourth time in five tournaments. As the dust settled on an electrifying contest, La Roja celebrated while Germany reflected on a missed opportunity to advance further on home soil, ensuring the match would be etched in the annals of Euro Championship history for its intensity and late drama.