Euro 2024: Spain Ends Germany’s Run, Kroos Retires After Storied Career

Spain shattered Germany’s hopes in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals with a dramatic victory in Stuttgart on Friday, July 5. Mikel Merino emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 120th minute, securing a 2-1 win for Spain. This loss also marks the end of Toni Kroos’s illustrious career, as he had previously announced his retirement from all forms of football.

Spain Secures Semifinal Spot
The match, contested for a place in the semifinals, saw Spain take the lead in the 51st minute. Dani Olmo connected with a cross from Lamine Yamal, heading home the opening goal. Spain continued their offensive play, refusing to sit back. Germany, determined to equalize, pushed forward with increasing urgency. In a bold move, German manager Julian Nagelsmann substituted Thomas Muller for Jonathan Tah in the dying moments of regular time.

This tactical change paid off when Germany equalized in the 89th minute. Florian Wirtz’s shot, deflected off Dani Carvajal, found the back of the net. Carvajal was later sent off after receiving a second yellow card. With the score tied at 1-1 after full time, the match headed into extra time, where both teams had opportunities to score.

In the second half of extra time, Spain’s defender Marc Cucurella was lucky to avoid conceding a penalty when a shot deflected off his arm in the penalty area. However, Spain eventually seized the decisive moment. Breaking through Germany’s defense, Mikel Merino netted the winning goal, knocking the hosts out of the tournament.

Kroos Ends Distinguished Career
This defeat signals the end of Toni Kroos’s remarkable career. Kroos had already concluded his club career with Real Madrid, where he won a record-equalling sixth Champions League title. Although he enjoyed a successful career with Germany, he never secured a European Championship. His most notable achievement came in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he played a crucial role in Germany’s triumph.

Kroos leaves behind a legacy as a dedicated and influential figure in German football, capping off an impressive professional journey.