By Connor Wagner
Germany were able to book their place in the quarterfinals of the tournament and were able to top Group B after beating Spain 2-0 at the Brentford Community stadium.
"2021-09-21 Fussball, Frauen, Länderspiel, Deutschland - Serbien 1DX 5033 by Stepro.jpg" By Steffen Prößdorf, Licensed by (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Germany wasted no time, as it took just three minutes for them to go ahead. Panos gifted the ball to Buhl and the German striker was able to stay composed to round Paredes before slotting the ball into an empty net. Early signs of Spain’s own errors.
Spain were almost able to hit back after the opener. Garcia received the ball on the right-hand side of the area but was only able to find the side netting from the tight angle.
Germany doubled their lead later into the first half, this time it was Alexandra Popp, with her second goal in successive Euro games. An in-swinging corner from Rauch and Popp was able to power the header home past Panos.
Shortly after the break, Popp was involved in a controversial moment which could have seen Spain go down to ten. Paredes looked to pull Popp down as she broke through Spain’s backline.
She appealed to referee Stephanie Frappart for a red but was quick to wave away the incident.
Germany could have had a third just before full-time. Tabea Wassmuth was flagged for offside, correct decision from the linesperson as the game ended shortly after.
Despite Spain being their normal selves, they couldn’t convert chances. Their attractive style of football with their quick passing and retainment of possession they lack their cutting edge in front of goal.
Spain need to find their shooting boots if they are to progress into the quarterfinals. It poses the question, how much of a difference would Jennifer Hermoso and Alexia Putellas make to this Spanish side?
Spain will now play Denmark on Saturday, with both team’s level on points going into the last game of the group, the winner will be making their way into the quarterfinals against England in Brighton on Wednesday evening.
As for Germany, they face the runners up of Group A after securing their place in the quarter final. They take on Finland at the Stadium MK, looking to make it 3 wins from 3 in the group stage as Finland look for their first points, but will not be enough to qualify.
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