Spain secured their spot in the Euro 2024 semi-finals by defeating hosts Germany 2-1 in a thrilling match. Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in extra time, heading in Dani Olmo's cross just before the game seemed destined for penalties. Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente expressed pride in his team's relentless performance, hailing them as a "winning horse."

Germany, despite a valiant effort, were disappointed to exit the tournament after Florian Wirtz's late equalizer forced extra time. Toni Kroos lamented their close defeat, acknowledging the bitterness of elimination.

With their seventh consecutive victory, Spain is now favored to capture a record-breaking fourth European title. They will face France in the semi-finals, who advanced after defeating Portugal 5-3 on penalties following a goalless draw in extra time. France's coach Didier Deschamps emphasized the team's deserving progress to the semis, marking their fourth appearance in the last five tournaments.

Meanwhile, Turkey protested vehemently against defender Merih Demiral's two-match ban for making a gesture linked to a nationalist group after scoring against Austria. Turkey's government criticized UEFA's decision as biased, claiming it was politically motivated. Coach Vincenzo Montella defended Demiral, arguing that the gesture was misunderstood and not intended as political.

In another development, England's Jude Bellingham will be available for their quarter-final against Switzerland, having been cleared by UEFA for a controversial celebration. Bellingham's gesture, following his crucial goal against Slovakia, sparked debate but was deemed innocuous by England's coach Gareth Southgate.

England aims to end a 58-year drought in major tournaments and will face either Turkey or the Netherlands in the semi-finals if they defeat Switzerland.