Toni Kroos’ dream comeback ended in heartbreak as Spain scored a dramatic winner in the final minute of extra time on Friday, July 5. In a thrilling quarter-final match at Stuttgart’s MHPArena, Spain’s attacking midfielders, Dani Olmo and Mikel Merino, scored crucial goals to secure a narrow 2-1 victory over Germany in Euro 2024 quarterfinals. Despite Germany’s relentless efforts in the second half and extra time, Spain’s resilience and determination helped them withstand a formidable attacking wave from the hosts.
Toni Kroos’ final game ends in heartbreak
With Germany’s elimination, Toni Kroos’ illustrious career came to an end. Widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, Kroos had hoped to cap his career with a European Championship winner’s medal to complement his 2014 World Cup triumph. Though it wasn’t meant to be, Kroos demonstrated his exceptional skill throughout his five appearances at Euro 2024, completing 514 passes with a mere 5.2% error rate. His masterful performances will be remembered fondly.
Fierce first half from Spain
Spain arguably had the upper hand in the first half, recording eight shots compared to Germany’s three, although none of Spain’s attempts came from inside the box. However, just 107 seconds into the second half, captain Álvaro Morata missed a golden opportunity after receiving a pass from Lamine Yamal, firing over the bar from less than 10 yards out.
Lamine Yamal continues his impact
Spain’s second shot inside the box proved more impactful. Dani Olmo, who replaced Pedri early in the game, capitalized on another pass from Yamal, side-footing the ball past Manuel Neuer to open the scoring and net his second goal of the tournament. This assist marked Yamal’s third of Euro 2024, making him the first teenager in the history of the Euros to achieve such a feat in a single tournament.
Despite his success in creating chances, Yamal has struggled to find the net himself. Aiming to become the youngest scorer in Euros history, Yamal has yet to score with any of his 13 shots in the tournament. Only Cristiano Ronaldo, who is vying to become the oldest scorer in European Championship history, has had more attempts without scoring, with 20 shots this summer.
Mikel Merino the hero
The match’s decisive moment came deep into extra time when Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s unlikely hero. In the 119th minute, Merino’s header, only his second international goal, sent Spain into the Euro 2024 semi-finals and eliminated hosts Germany. This thrilling encounter is considered one of the tournament’s best matches so far.
Despite Germany’s valiant efforts and Kroos’ commanding presence, Spain’s blend of youthful talent and experienced leadership ultimately proved too strong. The defeat marked the end of an era for Kroos, but his contributions to football will be celebrated for years to come. Meanwhile, Spain’s journey continues as they look forward to the semi-finals, buoyed by their dramatic victory and the promise of their emerging stars.
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