Merino's Last-Minute Header Sends Spain to Euro 2024 Semi-Finals, Hosts Germany Knocked Out

In a match for the ages, Mikel Merino's dramatic extra-time header secured Spain a thrilling 2-1 victory over UEFA Euro 2024 hosts Germany, propelling La Roja closer to a record fourth European Championship title. This pulsating quarter-final clash, a highly anticipated rematch of the 2008 final, saw Spain emerge triumphant in the dying moments, leaving Germany heartbroken and out of the tournament.

From the outset, the game lived up to its billing. Within the first minute, Pedri's low shot tested Manuel Neuer, setting the tone for an end-to-end battle. Spain's attacking trio of Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, and Fabián Ruiz fired wide from distance, while Germany's Kai Havertz saw his close-range header saved by Unai Simón, showcasing both sides' intent.

Havertz remained Germany's most potent threat, testing Simón again with a tame finish after expertly controlling a long ball. As the first half drew to a close, Spain ramped up the pressure, with Dani Olmo and Yamal forcing superb saves from Neuer to keep the score level.

The second half saw Spain's relentless pressure pay off. Álvaro Morata squandered a golden opportunity, but minutes later, Yamal's brilliance set up Olmo to break the deadlock with a composed finish in the 52nd minute. Germany, however, refused to bow out quietly. In the dying moments of regular time, Havertz missed a crucial chance before Florian Wirtz's stunning strike from Joshua Kimmich's knockdown sent the match into extra-time.

With the semi-finals in sight, both teams fought tooth and nail during the tense extra period. Mikel Oyarzabal came close for Spain, while Wirtz narrowly missed the target for Germany. Controversy struck when a penalty appeal for handball against Marc Cucurella was waved away, and Simón made a spectacular save to deny Niclas Füllkrug.

As penalties loomed, Dani Olmo delivered an inviting cross in the final 90 seconds of extra-time, which Merino headed past Neuer, sparking wild celebrations among the Spanish contingent. Despite late drama, including Dani Carvajal's red card for a second bookable offense, Spain held firm to secure their place in the semi-finals for the fourth time in five tournaments.

Germany's exit marks a historic low as they become the first host nation to lose a European Championship quarter-final. Spain now awaits their semi-final opponent, either Portugal or France, as they aim to continue their quest for a historic fourth title.