Euro 2024: Spain advances to semi-finals with extra-time win

A Mikel Merino goal in extra time gave Spain a dramatic 2-1 win over Germany in Friday's quarterfinal between the two most successful European Championship nations, News.Az reports citing USA Today.

The game was into the 119th minute and looked set for a penalty shootout before substitute Merino rose to head home the winning goal from Dani Olmo's cross and break the hearts of the majority of the crowd inside the Stuttgart Arena.

After a scoreless first half, Olmo put Spain ahead six minutes after the break, drilling home a first-time shot into the bottom corner, but Germany forced extra time through an 89th goal from Florian Wirtz.

Host Germany pushed hard for a late tying goal, but Spain held out to advance to the final four and a meeting with either Portugal or France. Those countries play later on Friday.

News.Az