July 24, (THEWILL) — Aitana Bonmatí’s clinical finish in the 113th minute sent Spain through to their first European Championship final with a 1-0 victory over Germany in Zurich on Wednesday evening. The Barcelona midfielder capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire past Ann-Katrin Berger from a tight angle, breaking the deadlock after a tense semi-final that had remained goalless through 90 minutes of regulation time.
Germany created the clearer opportunities in the opening exchanges, with Klara Bühl dragging an early effort wide before Giovanna Hoffmann failed to connect properly with Jule Brand’s dangerous cross. Spain responded through Esther González, who forced two smart saves from Berger, whilst Irene Paredes struck the post with a header just before half-time. González’s acrobatic overhead kick from the rebound sailed over the crossbar as both sides struggled to find the breakthrough.
The second half saw Spain increase their tempo, with Bonmatí and Salma Paralluelo both inches away from converting inviting deliveries into the box. Germany nearly snatched victory in the closing stages when Bühl’s 25-yard free-kick whistled past the post, before Cata Coll produced a stunning double save in the 94th minute. The Spanish goalkeeper first clawed away Bühl’s deflected strike before smothering Carlotta Wamser’s follow-up attempt.
Extra time brought few clear chances until Bonmatí struck decisively with seven minutes remaining. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner spun away from Rebecca Knaak to collect Athenea del Castillo’s pass before drilling a low shot between Berger and her near post. The goal ended Berger’s run of 15 consecutive saves and marked Spain’s first victory over Germany in three major tournament meetings, having previously lost twice without scoring.
Sunday’s final in Basel will see Spain face England in a repeat of the 2023 World Cup showpiece, which La Roja won 1-0. Bonmatí’s strike takes her tally to three knockout-stage goals at major tournaments for Spain, equalling Jennifer Hermoso’s record. Berger’s tournament-leading 23 saves could not prevent Germany’s exit, as Montse Tomé’s world champions moved one step closer to adding the European crown to their global title.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
