Euro Cup 2024: Spain beats Germany 2-1 in a neck to neck fight at the quarter-finals!
Xtra Time Web Desk: In an electrifying first quarter-final of the Euro Cup 2024 at MHP ARENA, Spain triumphed over Germany with a final score of 2-1. The match was a thrilling showcase of football prowess, highlighted by strategic plays and dramatic moments.
The deadlock was broken in the 51st minute by Spain’s Dani Olmo. Lamine Yamal, making a significant impact as a substitute, skillfully navigated down the right flank, maintaining possession before delivering a precise, low pass to Olmo. Without hesitation, Olmo fired a first-time shot into the bottom-left corner, marking the first goal of the match and sending Spanish fans into a frenzy.
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Germany, however, fought back with determination. In the 89th minute, Florian Wirtz equalized for Germany. Maximilian Mittelstädt, positioned on the left, delivered a cross to the back post where Joshua Kimmich rose high to head it back to Wirtz. Wirtz's low shot found its way in off the left post, reigniting hope for the German side and setting the stage for a tense conclusion to the match.
As the game extended into extra time, both teams demonstrated resilience and tactical brilliance. The decisive moment came in the 119th minute when Spain’s Mikel Merino secured the victory. Dani Olmo, once again instrumental, switched the ball onto his right foot on the left wing before curling a precise cross into the box. Merino met the cross with a powerful header, directing the ball down the left side of the goal past Germany's goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer.
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The match was not without its disciplinary challenges. Spain saw several players cautioned with yellow cards, including R. Le Normand, F. Torres, U. Simón, D. Carvajal, Rodri, F. Ruiz, and A. Morata. Germany also had a string of yellow cards issued to A. Rüdiger, D. Raum, R. Andrich, T. Kroos, M. Mittelstädt, N. Schlotterbeck, F. Wirtz, and D. Undav. The tension culminated in a red card for Spain's Dani Carvajal at 120+5 minutes, after he received a second yellow card for dragging back Jamal Musiala.
In the end, Spain emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Germany, thanks to the decisive goal by Merino in extra time. This match will be remembered for its high stakes, dramatic goals, and the unwavering spirit of both teams.
