Germany Triumphs Over France on Penalties to Reach Women’s Euro 2025 Semifinals Despite Playing Almost Entire Match with 10 Players

Eppe Franklyne –

• Germany overcame a red card to midfielder Kathrin Hendrich early in the match and held France to a 1-1 draw, eventually winning 6-5 on penalties.

• Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger was the hero, saving two penalties and scoring one herself in the shootout.

• The victory ended France’s 11-match winning streak and extended their pattern of quarterfinal exits in major tournaments.

• Germany will face World Cup champion Spain in the semifinals in Zurich on Wednesday.

Germany pulled off one of the most remarkable comebacks in Women’s Euro history, edging past France on penalties despite enduring a man disadvantage for virtually the entire match. After midfielder Kathrin Hendrich was sent off early for pulling the hair of France’s captain, Germany showed tremendous grit to hold France to a 1-1 draw and then prevail 6-5 in the shootout.

Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger emerged as the match hero, making two crucial saves and confidently converting her penalty. Despite being a player down, Germany maintained composure and took full advantage of set-pieces, with Nusken’s header leveling the score. France pressured throughout but struggled to convert key opportunities, including a missed penalty saved by France’s goalkeeper during regular time.

The win ended France’s 11-game winning streak and denied them a place in the semifinals once again, prolonging their quarterfinal woes at major tournaments. Germany now advances to face Spain, the reigning World Cup champions, in an eagerly awaited showdown. Coach Christian Wück lauded his team’s “incredible” spirit, while France’s Laurent Bonadei expressed hope for future progress despite the heartbreaking exit.