Germany has advanced to the semi-finals of the Women’s European Championship after a dramatic victory over France in Basel. The match, a captivating affair lasting over 120 minutes, culminated in a penalty shootout that Germany narrowly won 6-5.
The game began intensely, with Germany displaying resilience against the favored French side. However, the balance shifted early on when a foul by Hendrich, reviewed by VAR, resulted in a straight red card for the German defender and a penalty for France. Geyoro confidently converted the penalty in the 15th minute, putting France ahead.
Despite being a player down, Germany responded swiftly. In the 25th minute, a corner from Bühls was expertly headed into the net by Nüsken, showcasing impressive technical skill.
The remainder of the first half saw France attempting to regain the lead, but Germany’s determined defense held firm, ensuring a deserved 1-1 score at half-time.
The second half mirrored the first, with France creating more attacking opportunities. Berger, in goal for Germany, made a crucial intervention in the 56th minute, diverting a shot from Cascarino around the left post. Germany then had a prime opportunity to take the lead through a penalty awarded following a foul on Brand, but Nüsken’s effort was palmed away by Peyraud-Magnin.
As the regular time expired without a resolution, the game progressed to extra time. The extended period saw Germany struggling to maintain possession, often clearing the ball hastily from their own half. A near-own-goal moment occurred when Minge nearly deflected the ball past Berger, who pulled off a remarkable save. Malard’s late shot rattled the crossbar, but the score remained level, leading to a tense penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Germany initially took a lead thanks to a mistake by Peyraud-Magnin following Minge’s well-placed shot. Berger then saved Majri’s attempt, followed by a goal from Dallmann. After France scored, Knaak confidently converted, followed by Malard’s successful penalty for France. A missed opportunity by Däbritz was followed by Baltimore’s equalizing goal. Berger then netted her own penalty, met with a cool response from Jean-Francois. Bühl then dispatched a powerful shot, followed by N’Dongala’s goal. Ultimately, Nüsken’s successful penalty, coupled with a save from Berger against Sombath, secured Germany’s place in the semi-finals.
