Spain find that bit extra to eliminate Germany

Mikel Merino scored a dramatic header in extra time to send Spain through to the Euro 2024 semi-finals after they beat hosts Germany.

Spain took the lead through Dani Olmo six minutes into the second half, but Germany fought back and Florian Wirtz kept their hopes alive with an 89th-minute equaliser.

The match looked destined for penalties but, in the 119th minute, substitute Merino headed Spain into the final four and knocked the tournament hosts out.

Dani Carvajal was shown a second yellow card in the final seconds of the match and La Roja will now face either France or Portugal in the semi-finals.

Spain started the game brightly with a chance just seconds after kick-off when Alvaro Morata flicked the ball to Pedri on the edge of the box, but his low strike was comfortably collected by Manuel Neuer.

La Roja were then dealt a blow after Pedri was forced off the field with injury just eight minutes into the game.

Fabian Ruiz blasted a shot over the crossbar as Spain threatened on the break but, following a cautious start, Germany had their first real chance when Havertz's header was saved by Unai Simon.

Havertz had another chance after receiving a brilliant diagonal ball from Antonio Rudiger, but Simon made a good low save and Neuer was called into action at the other end to deny substitute Olmo from distance.

Spain were straight out of the blocks in the second half when Lamine Yamal tapped the ball into Morata, who pulled off a great turn but fired over the bar.

SPAIN ADVANCE