Germany’s women’s national team are through to the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 after a tense 6–5 victory on penalties against France, following a 1–1 draw after extra time in Basel, Switzerland.
The drama started early. In the 13th minute, Germany’s Kathrin Hendrich was sent off for pulling the braids of France captain Griedge Mbock inside the box.
“Decision overturned: penalty kick – red card: Germany’s player No. 3 pulled the hair of her opponent,” flashed across the VAR screen. Grace Geyoro stepped up and squeezed the penalty past Ann-Katrin Berger.
Down to 10 players and missing key defenders like Giulia Gwinn and Carlotta Wamser, Germany looked finished. But they refused to fold. Sjoeke Nüsken rose at the near post in the 25th minute to head in Klara Bühl’s corner and level the score.
Ann-Katrin Berger, Germany’s experienced goalkeeper and two-time cancer survivor, was the hero of the shootout—saving two penalties and even scoring one herself during sudden death.
France, who have now been eliminated by Germany in three straight major tournaments, exit at the quarter-final stage once again.
History Repeats Itself
This marks the third straight major tournament where France have been eliminated by Germany. Les Bleues have never beaten Germany at a World Cup or Euros.
Germany, meanwhile, continue their legacy with eight Euro titles and two World Cups. Even with 10 players, they showed why they’re still the team to beat.
Germany will now face Spain in the semi-finals on Wednesday, July 23, in Zurich. France, despite an unbeaten run in 2025 and a perfect group stage, crash out once again at the quarter-final stage
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