Germany and Spain are set to clash in the Euro 2025 semi-final in a highly anticipated match that will determine who faces defending champions England in the final. The contest presents a classic contrast in styles, pitting Spain’s technically gifted world champions against a famously resilient German side.
Spain enters the semi-final with a flawless record, having won all four of their matches and scored 16 goals. Their only minor setback was conceding first against Italy in the group stage, a match they went on to win 3-1. In the quarter-finals, they secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over hosts Switzerland, breaking down a valiant defence in the second half.
Germany’s path to the semi-final has been more arduous. After a heavy 4-1 loss to Sweden in the group stage, they finished as runners-up. Their resolve was tested in a dramatic quarter-final against France, where they were reduced to ten players after just 13 minutes but held on to force a penalty shootout, which they ultimately won.
Both teams are forced to make changes due to suspensions. Germany will be without Kathrin Hendrich, who was sent off against France, and Sjoeke Nusken, who is suspended for yellow card accumulation. They are replaced by Carlotta Wamser and Sara Dabritz. Spain makes one enforced change, with Maria Mendez stepping in for the suspended Laia Aleixandri.
Starting Lineups:
Germany: Berger; Wamser, Kleinherne, Minge, Knaak, Kett; Brand, Senß, Dabritz, Buhl; Hoffman.
Spain: Coll; Batlle, Paredes, Mendez, Carmona; Bonmati, Patri, Putellas; Caldentey, Gonzalez, Pina.
Ahead of the match, Germany’s coach, Christian Wück, acknowledged the challenge, stating his players must “do a lot of chasing” and “suffer” to beat Spain. However, he believes the tough win against France provided a “huge mental boost” and promised his team would “give Spain a tough battle.”
His counterpart, Spain’s Montse Tomé, expressed pride in her squad. “The team has made history. These players are destined for greatness,” she said, adding that reaching the semi-finals was their “objective accomplished.”
