Heroic 10-Player Germany Stun France in Penalty Shootout to Reach Euro 2025 Semi-Finals

Germany pulled off a remarkable upset in Basel on Friday night, overcoming an early red card to edge France in a dramatic penalty shootout and book their place in the Euro 2025 semi-finals.

Reduced to 10 players from the 13th minute after Kathrin Hendrich was dismissed for pulling Griedge Mbock’s hair in the penalty area, the eight-time champions showed immense character and tactical discipline to hold France to a 1-1 draw through 120 minutes before triumphing 6-5 in the shootout.

Ann-Katrin Berger was the undisputed hero of the night, producing a series of outstanding saves during the match and then denying Alice Sombath from the spot to seal Germany’s victory.

Hendrich’s moment of madness flagged by VAR led to a penalty which France captain Grace Geyoro converted with composure to put Les Bleues ahead. But Germany responded swiftly, with Sjoeke Nüsken glancing home a header to level the scores and re-ignite hope among the German faithful.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, Germany matched France stride for stride, and even saw a potential second goal for Geyoro ruled out due to offside in the build-up. France, who dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances, were unable to capitalise on their advantage.

Nüsken had a golden opportunity to complete the comeback in normal time after Jule Brand was brought down in the box, but her penalty was tame and comfortably saved by Pauline Peyraud-Magnin.

In the end, Germany’s grit and nerve in the shootout proved decisive. While Amel Majri and Sombath both missed for France, the Germans converted six of their seven penalties with calm precision.

Berger, whose previous outing against Sweden drew criticism, produced a redemption performance for the ages. She made nine saves in regular and extra time one of which came at full stretch to deny Delphine Cascarino and even prevented a potential own goal with a stunning reflex stop from teammate Janina Minge’s misjudged header.

Talking Point: Discipline Costs, Spirit Redeems

Hendrich’s sending-off echoed the group-stage red card shown to Carlotta Wamser in the 4-1 loss to Sweden, highlighting discipline as a recurring issue. But instead of crumbling, Christian Wück’s side showcased resilience, defending valiantly and disrupting France’s rhythm.

German supporters were vocal throughout, voicing frustration at refereeing decisions, but it only added to the intensity inside St. Jakob-Park. France controlled much of the possession but rarely found a way through Germany’s compact back line.

Standout Performers

Giovanna Hoffmann’s inclusion up front was a surprise, but her strength and work rate helped stretch the French defence. Meanwhile, Berger’s commanding performance in goal kept her side alive and ultimately carried them over the finish line.

Key Stats

Germany have now reached the Euro semi-finals for a record seventh time since the tournament adopted a group-stage format in 1997.

France managed 73% possession and 13 shots but failed to break through decisively.

Berger’s nine saves in regulation and extra time were the second most recorded in a knockout match at the Euros since 2013.

What’s Next

Germany will face world champions Spain on Wednesday in Zurich for a place in the final, after La Roja defeated hosts Switzerland 2-0. France’s tournament ends at the quarter-final stage once again, a round they’ve exited more times than any other nation but they’ll have a shot at redemption in October’s Women’s Nations League semi-final clash against Germany.