Germany Advances to Euro 2025 Semifinals After Penalty Shootout Win Over France

Germany's goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger played a pivotal role in their dramatic Euro 2025 quarterfinal victory over France, showcasing resilience and exceptional skill despite the team being reduced to 10 players early in the match. Berger, who has beaten cancer twice, made nine crucial saves throughout the game, including a spectacular one in extra time to prevent an own goal, and was instrumental in the penalty shootout by saving two shots and scoring a decisive penalty herself. After facing criticism for Germany's earlier defeat to Sweden, Berger remained confident and embraced an adventurous style of play, emphasizing participation and trust with her teammates. Germany equalized after France's early penalty and held on to win 6-5 on penalties, advancing to face world champions Spain in the semifinals. Berger's performance was widely praised by coaches and analysts as a key factor in Germany's success and a testament to her fighting spirit and calm under pressure. Her leadership and heroics solidified her status as Germany's number one goalkeeper at age 34, inspiring her team and fans alike.