Berger heroics lead Germany to penalty win as they overcame France in a dramatic UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 quarter-final that went down to a tense shootout. Germany, who played with 10 players for over 100 minutes, booked their semi-final spot against Spain after edging past France 6-5 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at St Jakob-Park in Basel.
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Early Drama and Hendrich’s Red Card
Germany faced a tough start when Kathrin Hendrich received a red card just 13 minutes in for pulling Griedge Mbock’s hair. After a VAR check, the referee awarded a penalty, and Grace Geyoro stepped up to score for France despite Ann-Katrin Berger getting a hand to the shot.
Germany’s Quick Response
France’s lead didn’t last long as Sjoeke Nusken equalised for Germany 10 minutes later with a sharp near-post header from Klara Buhl’s corner. France thought they had regained the lead before halftime through Delphine Cascarino’s clever back-heel finish, but the goal was ruled out for offside, keeping the scores level.
Berger’s Key Saves During the Match
In the second half, Berger made a crucial save from Marie-Antoinette Katoto’s header, but France found the net on the rebound through Geyoro. However, Germany had another lucky break when the goal was ruled out for offside after the referee checked the monitor again. Germany then had a chance to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 69th minute after Selma Bacha fouled Jule Brand, but Nusken’s penalty was saved by Pauline Peyraud-Magnin.
Late Chances and Extra Time Tension
Germany’s defense had to stay strong as Janina Minge’s deflection almost resulted in an own goal, but Berger managed to claw the ball away just in time. France’s substitute Melvine Malard struck the crossbar late in extra time, but neither side could find a winner, leading the match to penalties.
The Shootout Hero
In the penalty shootout, Berger emerged as the hero for Germany. She saved penalties from Amel Majri and Alice Sombath while also converting her own spot-kick, helping Germany clinch a 6-5 victory in the shootout and a place in the EURO 2025 semi-final against Spain.
