STUTTGART, Germany – A goal from Mikel Merino in extra time secured Spain a thrilling 2-1 victory over Germany in the quarterfinals of the European Championship on Friday. With the game approaching a penalty shootout in the 119th minute, Merino, a substitute, headed in the winning goal from a cross by Dani Olmo, disappointing the majority of fans at the Stuttgart Arena.
After a goalless first half, Olmo gave Spain the lead six minutes into the second half with a precise first-time shot into the bottom corner. However, Germany equalized with an 89th-minute goal from Florian Wirtz, forcing the match into extra time.
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Mikel Merino celebrated scoring Spain’s crucial second goal during the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Germany. Despite Germany’s efforts to find a late equalizer, Spain held on and advanced to the semifinals, where they will face either Portugal or France, who play later on Friday.
