Spain has finally overcome Germany in the Euro semi-finals after a grueling 120 minutes of play. Aitana Bonmatí’s crucial goal in extra time secured a tense 1-0 victory, paving the way for La Roja to make their debut in the Women’s Euros final. They will face England in Basel on Sunday, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch of last summer’s World Cup showdown.
A Nail-Biting Semi-Final
The match was tightly contested, revealing that finals are best served hot, even with the added pressure of extra time. The pivotal moment came in the 113th minute when Bonmatí received the ball on the left flank. Spotting a narrow gap at the near post as Germany’s keeper Ann-Katrin Berger lunged, Bonmatí executed a low shot that slipped under Berger’s dive.
For Bonmatí, who made a remarkable recovery from a meningitis scare earlier this year, scoring this goal was especially significant. Spain had never defeated Germany at a major tournament until now, and breaking that streak in extra time felt like discovering a tenner in last week’s coat pocket.
Berger Takes Responsibility
Despite a stellar performance, with eight saves in the match and 23 overall in the tournament, Berger accepted responsibility for the critical mistake. “It should have been mine,” she admitted. “I can’t fault my saves, but that ball had to stay out.” It’s commendable for her to own up to the misstep—goalkeepers often evade accountability.
Match Highlights
- First Half: Germany started strong, with Klara Bühl striking the side-netting from a long ball. Spain’s attack was subdued until the 21st minute, when Esther González—this tournament’s joint top scorer—forced a fine save from Berger. Moments later, Giovanna Hoffmann missed a golden opportunity at the far post.
- Close Calls: Just before half-time, Irene Paredes hit the woodwork with a header, followed by González attempting an overhead kick, which was blocked. Spain’s goalkeeper, Cata Coll, remained untroubled for much of the match but shone at the end of regular time with a brilliant double save against Bühl and Carlotta Wamser, pushing the game into extra time.
Looking Ahead to the Final
As Germany aimed for a record ninth European crown and appeared ready to take the match to penalties, Bonmatí’s strike dashed those hopes. Now, Spain will prepare to face England, a team that also required extra time to defeat Italy.
The final promises to be another gripping encounter, with many hoping it won’t include any more unexpected twists—unless, of course, England’s two extra-time goals induce heartburn among fans!