Germany Defeat France on Penalties to Reach Euro 2025 Semifinals

Germany’s women’s national football team secured a dramatic victory over France on Saturday night, winning 6–5 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in regular and extra time at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. Despite being reduced to ten players for over 100 minutes, Germany held firm and triumphed in a tense shootout to book their place in the semifinals.

Early Red Card and France’s Penalty

The match, played at Letzigrund Stadium in Zurich, took a sharp turn in the 13^th minute when German defender Kathrin Hendrich was sent off. Referee Jana Adamkova showed Hendrich a straight red card after VAR review confirmed she had pulled the hair of France captain Griedge Mbock Bathy inside the penalty area.

France were awarded a penalty, and midfielder Grace Geyoro converted from the spot, giving her side a 1–0 lead early in the game. It was a major setback for the Germans, who were forced to play with ten players for the remainder of the match.

Germany’s Immediate Response

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Germany equalized just twelve minutes later. Sjoeke Nüsken rose above the French defense to head home from a corner in the 25^th minute, leveling the score at 1–1.

The goal galvanized the German squad, who adjusted their formation to a compact 4-4-1, focusing on defensive solidity while looking for counter-attacking opportunities. France, playing with an extra player, dominated possession and territory, pushing their lines high and pressing aggressively.

Tactical Battle: France’s Dominance and Germany’s Resilience

France controlled approximately 65% of possession and repeatedly threatened Germany’s goal with quick combinations and crosses. Their midfielders, including Amandine Henry and Eugénie Le Sommer, orchestrated attacks, trying to break down the disciplined German backline.

Germany, however, defended in a well-organized block, with Ann-Katrin Berger commanding her area confidently. Berger’s positioning and communication were crucial in organizing the defense, especially as France ramped up their pressure.

In the second half, France’s strategy focused on exploiting the wings and delivering crosses into the box, hoping to capitalize on their numerical advantage. Germany’s defenders remained disciplined, blocking shots and clearing dangerous balls.

Despite missing a penalty of their own earlier in the match, Germany’s mental fortitude never wavered, with coach Christian Wück urging patience and belief from the sidelines.

Extra Time: Tense Moments and Goalkeeping Heroics

As the game extended into extra time, fatigue became a factor, especially for the Germans playing one player short. France maintained the pressure, but were unable to convert their chances.

A critical moment came in the 98^th minute when a cross destined for a German own goal was spectacularly saved by Berger. Her reflex save kept the score level and lifted her teammates.

The match ended 1–1 after extra time, leading to the nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout: Berger’s Moment of Glory

The penalty shootout proved to be the decisive factor. Berger emerged as the hero, saving two penalties and confidently converting one herself. The shootout ended 6–5 in Germany’s favor, sending their players and fans into jubilation.

Berger’s composure under pressure, combined with her technical skill in penalties, demonstrated why she is regarded as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers. Her performance was even more remarkable given her recent battle with thyroid cancer, which she overcame twice in recent years.

Coach and Player Reactions

Christian Wück praised his squad’s character and determination after the match. “Playing almost the entire match with ten players and still showing this level of commitment is outstanding,” he said. “Ann-Katrin Berger’s performance was exceptional and pivotal to our success.”

Berger, modest despite her heroics, highlighted the team’s mental strength. “It was a collective effort,” she said. “We believed in ourselves, stayed calm, and executed under pressure.”

France’s Exit and Reflections

For France, the quarterfinal exit was a disappointing end to a tournament where they showed flashes of brilliance but failed to convert dominance into victory.

Coach Laurent Bonadei acknowledged the shortcomings: “We had opportunities but couldn’t take them. Germany defended well and deserved their win.”

The result continues a trend of France struggling to progress past the quarterfinal stage in recent major tournaments, raising questions about tactical adjustments needed to push deeper.

Historical Context: Germany vs France Rivalry

Germany and France share a storied rivalry in women’s football. Germany leads in overall wins, with Euro titles and consistent World Cup performances.

This latest match continued the narrative of tight, highly competitive games between the two nations, often decided by narrow margins or penalty shootouts.

Semifinal Preview: Germany vs Spain

Germany’s next challenge is daunting: a semifinal clash against reigning World Cup champions Spain, scheduled for July 23 in Zurich.

Spain, known for their possession-based style and technical prowess, have impressed throughout the tournament, winning all their matches convincingly. They defeated Italy 3–0 in their quarterfinal.

Germany will be without Hendrich due to suspension, placing more responsibility on their defensive unit and goalkeeper Berger.

Christian Wück commented on the upcoming game: “Spain are formidable opponents with great skill and strategy. We will focus on recovery and preparation to give ourselves the best chance.”

Outlook for Germany and the Tournament

Germany aims to claim their ninth European Championship title, their first since 2013. This victory over France has injected belief and momentum into the squad.

The tournament itself is showcasing increasing competitiveness and quality in women’s football, with multiple nations capable of winning.