da bet7： Julian Nagelsmann's side fought back in normal time through Florian Wirtz's goal, but eventually fell to a 2-1 defeat in Stuttgart

da pixbet： Toni Kroos' career ended in heartbreak as Spain midfielder Mikel Merino's last-gasp goal in extra-time knocked Germany out of Euro 2024 in a thrilling quarter-final clash in Stuttgart.

In a contest between two heavyweights, both teams went at it hammer and tong from the first whistle; with Kai Havertz and Nico Williams fashioning good chances for themselves.

Following an intriguing and even first half, Spain started the brighter in the second and took the lead in the 51st minute when substitute Dani Olmo caressed in Lamine Yamal's crisp pass. Germany were not going away, however, with Unai Simon making a finger-tip save to keep out Robert Andrich's curling effort.

Fellow substitute Niclas Fullkrug then then hit the post before the hosts' pressure told and substitute Florian Wirtz slotted into the corner in the 89th minute as Julian Nagelsmann's gambles paid off.

Wirtz nearly won it in extra-time, only for his side-footed shot to whistle past the frame of the goal, while Fullkrug had a header saved by Simon. And just as penalties beckoned, substitute Merino headed into the corner in the 119th minute to send Spain – who had Dani Carvajal sent off in the dying seconds – through to face either Portugal or France in the final four of the competition.

GOAL rates Germany's players from MHPArena…

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Manuel Neuer (7/10):

The evergreen goalkeeper pulled off some smart, reflex saves, but could do little to keep out Olmo's well-placed effort or Merino's late header.

Joshua Kimmich (8/10):

Was not ensnared so easily by Williams' tricks – although the winger was a big threat – and put in some teasing crosses into the box. Got the assist for Wirtz's leveller with a vital header in an impressive display.

Antonio Rudiger (6/10):

Even when he is not at his best, he is the key man in Germany's backline. Was kept busy throughout but stood up to the tests well. Crucially, though, lost his man Merino at the death.

Jonathan Tah (6/10):

Returned from suspension and made some important interceptions at the back when called upon. However, Morata's elusive movement left him flat-footed.

David Raum (5/10):

Perhaps showed Yamal too much respect and stood off the teenager for Spain's opener. The booked defender was taken off soon after.

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Emre Can (5/10):

Although he added a bit more composure on the ball, he lacked the disruptive capabilities of Andrich and was replaced at half-time.

Toni Kroos (5/10):

The Real Madrid icon did not get the send off he dreamed of and was often left trailing in Olmo's wake. On another day, he could have been sent off for an accumulation of fouls, but the great midfielder will be remembered for a long time.

Ilkay Gundogan (6/10):

The Barcelona ace had a good battle with Rodri in midfield, but as the contest wore on his effectiveness waned.

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Leroy Sane (5/10):

Tracked back to try and quieten Williams, with little success. The Bayern Munich winger didn't offer enough in attack and was hooked at the break.

Kai Havertz (7/10):

While he showed intelligent centre-forward play with his movement, he, arguably, doesn't quite have the attacking instincts a No.9 needs.

Jamal Musiala (5/10):

Had one of his quieter games when Germany needed him to shine. He was dispossessed a few times and wasn't particularly effective.

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Robert Andrich (7/10):

Was denied a classy equaliser by the diving Simon as he gave Germany's midfield a bit more bite.

Florian Wirtz (8/10):

Was a big improvement on Sane when introduced, as his pace and directness kept Spain honest. Plus, he took his goal well with a snap shot.

Maximilian Mittelstadt (6/10):

Defensively he wasn't great but put in the cross that led to Wirtz's goal.

Niclas Fullkrug (7/10):

His touch let him down in key moments but he was inches away from grabbing an equaliser, only to be denied by the post and then Simon.

Thomas Muller (6/10):

While most of Germany's substitutes worked, he didn't have a big impact on the match.

Waldemar Anton (7/10):

Came on for Havertz in extra-time and helped solidify his team's backline.

Julian Nagelsmann (7/10):

The decision to bring in Can and Tah may not have had the desired effect, with the former withdrawn at the interval and the latter struggling with Morata. His substitutes were able to meld their offensive talents together and he should be commended for making those gambles off the bench. His side lost in cruel fashion, though.