At 0:00 a.m. Beijing time on July 6, the highly anticipated first matchup of the 2024 Euro 2024 quarterfinals was passionately staged at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Stuttgart, and the host German team faced the favorite Spanish team. This match is not only about who can advance to the final four between the two teams, but also a pinnacle of technology and tactics. In the end, Spain defeated Germany 2-1 with Merino's stunning goal in the 119th minute of extra time and successfully advanced to the semi-finals.
The game was full of gunpowder as soon as it opened. In the fourth minute, Kroos, the core of the German midfield, brought down Spanish midfielder Pedri in a scramble, who fell to the ground in pain and covered his knees, and then could not continue the game, and was replaced by Olmo in the seventh minute. This unexpected turn of events undoubtedly disrupted the pre-match deployment of the Spanish team, but the team quickly adjusted and showed strong overall strength.
In the first half, both sides attacked and defended each other but failed to break the deadlock. Spain used wide attacks to threaten the German goal, but the German defence made it impossible for Spain to attack many times. The German team, on the other hand, relied on Kroos's precise passes and Havertz, Musiala and other counter-attacks to create a lot of problems for the Spanish team. At half-time, the two sides drew 0-0.
Shortly after the start of the second half, Spain were the first to break the deadlock. In the 51st minute, Yamal made a precise cross from the right side of the penalty area, and Olmo grabbed the point to push the goal and give Spain the lead. However, the Germans did not give up, stepping up their attack and levelled the scores in the 89th minute with a volley from Wirtz. The two sides were back on the same running line again, and the race went into extra time.
In extra time, both sides showed a significant drop in fitness, but the pace of the game was still tense and intense. Spain relied on Merino's excellent performance to score a stunner in the 119th minute. Olmo's cross from the left flank, Merino shook his head unguarded and headed the ball into the corner of the goal, giving Spain a 2-1 lead! The goal set the pitch on fire, with the Spanish fans cheering and the Germans in despair.
Key player performances:
- Merino: The absolute hero of the game, he scored a late extra-time header to help Spain knock out hosts Germany. It was Merino's second goal for the Spanish national team and the highlight of his career.
- Pedri: Despite leaving the pitch early due to injury, Pedri's performance is still commendable. With every touch on the pitch, he showed a high level of skill and awareness of the game, and was an important part of Spain's midfield.
- Kroos: Germany's midfield commander who made a number of precise passes and created a number of attacking opportunities for his team-mates. However, his foul also led to the departure of Pedri, an important player in the Spanish team, with an injury, which became one of the turning points of the game.
- Olmo: As Pedri's replacement, Olmo was outstanding in the game. Not only did he score Spain's first goal, but he also provided an assist in extra-time to help Merino strike. His outstanding performances are a testament to the talent and depth of the Spanish team.
With Spain's victory, they managed to advance to the semi-finals and will face the winner between Portugal and France. This match will undoubtedly be a big challenge for the Spanish team, but they have already shown great strength and determination. They will continue to fight for the championship and bring more exciting games to the fans.
And for the host German team, this defeat is undoubtedly a heavy blow. They need to regain their confidence and form in the future games to bring more surprises and emotions to the fans.
Overall, this European Championship quarter-final is a game full of suspense and passion. Spain's stunner victory gave fans a testament to the charm and possibilities of football. The exit of the German team reminds us that there are no permanent winners and no permanent losers on the football field, and only continuous hard work and hard work can create their own glorious moments.
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