Basel , 20 July (H.S.): Ann-Katrin Berger’s remarkable save led Germany to a 6-5 penalty shootout victory over France, securing a place in the Euro 2025 semi-finals against Spain after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time on July 19, 2025. Germany faced significant challenges after defender Kathrin Hendrich received a straight red card just 13 minutes in for pulling Griege Mbock Bathy’s hair in the box.
France took the lead with Grace Geyoro’s penalty, which Berger nearly stopped. However, Germany equalized in the 25th minute as Sjoeke Nuesken capitalized on a corner, heading the ball in. France had two goals disallowed for offside, and Nuesken’s second-half penalty was saved, with no further goals in extra time.
In the shootout, Berger started strong by saving Amel Majri’s attempt, but Sara Daebrtiz’s kick hit the crossbar. Berger then scored her penalty and saved from Alice Sombath, sending Germany to the semi-finals to face Spain on Wednesday. England and Italy will compete in the other semi-final.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
