Mikel Merino, hailed as a hero for Spain, described their Euro 2024 quarter-final victory against hosts Germany as a potential final. Coach Luis de la Fuente likened his team to a “winning horse”.
Spain narrowly triumphed in a clash between the top-scoring teams of Euro 2024, marking one of the tournament’s most captivating showdowns.
Dani Olmo, who came off the bench to play 112 minutes, initiated the scoring and assisted Mikel Merino’s decisive goal in extra time, countering Florian Wirtz’s late equalizer for Germany in the 89th minute.
Looking ahead to their semi-final against France on Tuesday, Merino, the midfielder from Real Sociedad, reflected on the intense match: “I’m exhausted. The adrenaline is still coursing through me. It’s been an unforgettable moment.”
He added, “It felt like a match that could have been a World Cup final or a European Championship final, between two of the world’s top teams. We’ve proven we can endure and that we possess a formidable squad.”
Spain has showcased their dominance in the Euros, defeating formidable opponents like 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia, European champions Italy, and Georgia in the knockout stages, along with Albania in the group phase.
Standout performances from young talents like 16-year-old winger Lamine Yamal and 21-year-old Nico Williams have illuminated their campaign. However, their latest victory required a different approach, with both Yamal, Williams, and striker Alvaro Morata substituted at 1-0.
Coach Luis de la Fuente expressed pride in his team’s adaptability, stating, “I’m proud to coach players like this, players that are insatiable. They’re accustomed to competing at the highest level and have a genuine chance to claim the tournament.”
Looking ahead, he tempered excitement with caution, acknowledging the challenges ahead: “How far we can go, we’ll see. But we believe wholeheartedly in our ability to go far with this squad. We’re delighted, yet our euphoria is in check. We understand tomorrow brings new challenges.”
Spain faces adversity with suspended defenders Dani Carvajal and Robin le Normand, while midfielder Pedri’s injury adds to uncertainties. Despite a game marked by intensity and a record number of cards shown, de la Fuente remained unfazed: “I played in the 80s—I’m not easily intimidated. This is football; it’s played to the limit.”
Man of the match Dani Olmo, who plays for RB Leipzig in Germany, emphasized the team’s resilience: “Heart matters more than legs. Let’s celebrate calmly because in a few days we have the semi-finals.”
Reflecting on Spain’s performance, former Scotland winger Pat Nevin praised their determination: “Spain showed not only skill but also grit. However, their mounting suspensions could pose challenges in the upcoming semi-final.”
