Germany’s Euro 2025 Dream Ends in Heartbreak — and Merz Misses the Match

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz never got to see his country’s women’s team play in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final — because they never made it.

Before Germany’s semifinal clash with reigning world champions Spain on Wednesday, Merz had shared his hopes on social media: “If it goes well we’ll see each other Sunday evening in Basel for the final.” But it didn’t. Aitana Bonmatí’s extra-time goal sealed a 1–0 win for Spain, dashing Germany’s hopes of reaching the title match and avoiding a penalty shootout the team had seemed destined for.

Germany entered the tournament with high expectations, but their campaign often lacked cohesion despite moments of grit and individual brilliance. Merz, who had become an enthusiastic supporter, was caught on video reacting with awe to goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger’s heroics in the quarterfinal shootout win over France. He later called the penalty win one of the most thrilling football moments he’d ever witnessed. Unfortunately, a diplomatic engagement with French President Emmanuel Macron meant Merz couldn’t attend the semifinal in Zurich.

Germany’s journey was marked by resilience but undermined by injuries, suspensions, and inconsistent play. Key players like captain Giulia Gwinn (injured in the opener against Poland) and defender Sarai Linder were sidelined, while Carlotta Wamser and Kathrin Hendrich were sent off in consecutive games, forcing Germany to adopt a heavily defensive approach.

Still, the team fought hard. They edged past Denmark 2–1 in the group stage and battled through a chaotic 6–5 penalty shootout win over France, thanks in large part to Berger — who not only made two shootout saves but also stopped a near-own goal with a stunning reflex effort, and converted a penalty herself.

In the semifinal against Spain, Germany—missing key defenders and relying on forwards to reinforce the back line—mounted a brave resistance. Berger made a string of crucial saves once again, but a lapse at the near post in extra time allowed Bonmatí to squeeze in the winner.

Despite the disappointment, the team showed character throughout the tournament. Franziska Kett, Giovanna Hoffmann, and Jule Brand—nominal forwards—contributed tirelessly in defense, while Klara Bühl and Sjoeke Nüsken kept Germany’s attack alive with key moments.

Spain’s victory ended any chance of a Germany-England rematch in the final and left Merz with an empty slot on his weekend calendar. For Germany, Euro 2025 ends not in triumph, but in bittersweet memories of what might have been.