A stellar performance by goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger and the German resistance, who played with one player less for 105 minutes, led Germany to the semi-finals of the European Championship. The German team overcame France in an exciting penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Berger, the German Heroine
Berger became the key figure of the match. In extra time, he made a spectacular save, considered one of the best of the tournament. In addition, in the penalty shootout, he scored his shot and stopped two of the French shots, securing the victory for his team. Now, Germany will face Spain in the semifinals.
France, which had performed impeccably in the group stage, could not maintain its winning streak against the German team, one of the most decorated in the history of the tournament. The match became complicated for France early on, after the expulsion of Kathrin Hendrich.
Germany Resists with Ten Players
Hendrich was sent off for a foul inside the area. Grace Geyoro converted the penalty, putting France ahead. However, Germany showed their strength and tied the match thanks to a goal by Sjoeke Nusken.
Despite France’s attempts to take the lead, the score remained tied until the end of regulation time. A French goal was disallowed for offside, maintaining the tension of the match.
In extra time, Berger continued to shine, making a crucial save to maintain the tie. The match was decided in the penalty shootout, where the German goalkeeper emerged as the heroine, leading her team to victory.
In the penalty shootout, Minge, Dallman, Knaak, Berger, Buhl and Nusken scored for Germany; while Dabritz missed her shot. For France, Karchaoui, Malard, Baltimore, Jean-François and N’Dongala scored. Majri and Sombath could not overcome the German goalkeeper, securing Germany’s place in the semi-finals.
