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European Women's Championship Finale Evades Germany's DFB Squad

In the Zurich semi-final, the underdog German squad shows tenacity and pressure against the favored opponents. Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger delivers an impressive performance, yet ultimately falls short.

European Women's Championship: Germany's national team fails to reach the final
European Women's Championship: Germany's national team fails to reach the final

European Women's Championship Finale Evades Germany's DFB Squad

Germany Falls Short in EURO 2025 Semi-Final Against Spain

The German Women's Football Team suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to Spain in the UEFA Women's EURO 2025 semi-final held on July 23, 2025, in Zurich, Switzerland. The only goal of the match was scored by Spain's Aitana Bonmatí in the 113th minute of extra time.

Germany faced significant challenges, missing midfielder Sjoeke Nüsken and captain Giulia Gwinn due to injury, and Sarai Linder due to a capsule injury. Coach Christian Wueck made tactical adjustments, bringing in veteran Sara Däbritz in midfield and pushing Janina Minge forward, while defending with the return of Carlotta Wamser and Sophia Kleinherne.

Despite these setbacks, Germany displayed strong defensive resilience and goalkeeping heroics from Ann-Katrin Berger, who made multiple key saves, including during injury time and extra time. Spain nearly took the lead before the break, with a Paredes header hitting the post at 41', but Berger denied multiple scoring attempts from Esther González and Pina.

Spain, reigning FIFA Women's World Cup and UEFA Nations League champions, made their first appearance in a Women's EURO final thanks to this win, showing superior stamina and clinical finishing during extra time. Germany just about managed to hold on without conceding in the first half, but struggled to contain Spain's attacks throughout the match.

Key moments included Buhl's free kick from 21 meters just missing the target in the 85th minute, and Berger's save on a shot from Esther Gonzalez shortly after the first half's 41st minute. The decisive goal was scored by Aitana Bonmatí in the 113th minute of extra time, a brilliant swerving finish that ultimately decided the tight contest.

The match was attended by around 22,432 spectators, including German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Former coach Horst Hrubesch and football legend Günter Netzer were also present in the stadium. This result marked Spain breaking their historical record against Germany in Women's EURO competition, as Germany had never lost to Spain in their eight previous meetings (five wins, three draws).

The Spanish team will play in the European Championship final for the first time since their World Cup triumph in Australia two years ago. The loss marks a disappointing end to Germany's EURO 2025 campaign, but the team can take pride in their resilient performance against a highly qualified Spanish side.

What about the Premier League this season? With Germany's football team falling short in the EURO 2025 semi-final against Spain, it's a reminder of the fierce competition in European leagues, especially during crucial matches like the one against Spain.

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