Germany Loses to Spain in UEFA EURO 2024 Quarterfinals

Overtime Goal Ends German Hopes of Advancing to Semifinals

Merino's Late Strike Devastates Germany, Kroos Retires from International Football

In a heart-wrenching match that went into overtime, Germany's hopes of advancing to the UEFA EURO 2024 semifinals were dashed after Spain's Mikel Merino scored a late goal in the 118th minute. The goal, which was set up by a pass from Dani Olmo, caught the German defense off guard and sent the Spanish fans into a frenzy.

The match was a tense affair from the start, with both teams creating chances but failing to capitalize. Germany's Toni Kroos had a chance to put his team ahead in the second half, but his shot went just wide of the post. Spain's Álvaro Morata also came close to scoring, but his header was cleared off the line by German defender Matthias Ginter.

With the match seemingly headed for a penalty shootout, Merino stepped up in the final minutes of extra time. The Real Sociedad midfielder received the ball in space on the left side of the box and fired a low shot into the far corner of the net. The goal sent the Spanish fans into raptures and left the German players and fans devastated.

The defeat was a crushing blow for Germany, who had come into the tournament as one of the favorites. It also marked the end of Kroos's international career, as the midfielder announced his retirement from the German national team after the match.