Germany suffered heartbreak in Stuttgart, losing 2-1 to Spain in extra time at the quarterfinals stage of Euro 2024.
After a strong first-half, Spain started the second the brighter of the two sides, and took the lead just six minutes after the break courtesy of an excellent strike from substitute Dani Olmo.
After piling on the pressure, Germany got their well deserved equaliser in the 89th minute, with Florian Wirtz scoring to take the game to extra time. The host nation had chances to win the match before another substitute, Mikel Merino, won the match for Spain in the 119th minute with a superb header.
There was very little to separate the two sides, but Germany fell just short in the end. Let us now take a look at the performances of the Bayern Munich contingent from this heart-breaking loss.
Joshua Kimmich
Notwithstanding the outcome of the match, Joshua Kimmich was truly exceptional for Germany. The right-back was consistent throughout the 120+ minutes of action.
In defense, he did well to contain the threat of Nico Williams down Spain’s left flank. He also won both of his tackles, 56% of his ground duels (5/9), 67% of his aerial duels (2/3), and also made seven recoveries. Had the other defenders matched Kimmich’s level on the day, Germany may well have progressed to the semifinals.
At the offensive end, Kimmich supplemented Germany’s attack down the right and also centrally when the opportunity arose. He created three big chances, including two from crosses. It was his header from inside the box that set up Florian Wirtz for Germany’s equalizer from close range.