Germany's exit from the European Championship marks the end of Toni Kroos' illustrious career, as the 34-year-old bids farewell to his fans with an emotional message.
After a dramatic extra time, Germany lost to Spain, eliminating them in the quarter-finals of the home European Championship. This defeat also signifies the end of an era for Kroos, who has been a pivotal figure in German football.
Kroos, a six-time Champions League winner, expressed no regrets about his return to the national team, despite the bitter loss. He praised the team's efforts and the support from fans, urging them to continue backing the national team.
Spain, on the other hand, broke their historical curse by defeating the host country for the first time in a major tournament. Their 2-1 victory in Stuttgart was sealed by Mikel Merino's header in extra time, sending La Roja to the semifinals.
The match, which was intense and closely contested, saw Spain losing key player Pedri early on, but they managed to adapt and secure the win. Germany, despite their efforts, couldn't capitalize on their chances and were ultimately undone by Spain's resilience.
The defeat not only ended Germany's European Championship campaign but also brought an end to Kroos' career, who has been a stalwart for the national team since 2010. His departure is a significant moment for German football, as he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and dedication.
- Toni Kroos' farewell message highlighted his emotional connection with the fans and his pride in the team's performance. He thanked the supporters for their warmth and affection, and urged them to continue supporting the national team through thick and thin.
- Spain's victory was a historic moment, as they had never before eliminated a host country in a World Cup or European Championship. Their next challenge will be against the winner of the France and Portugal match in the semifinals.
- The match saw several key moments, including Spain's early loss of Pedri and Germany's equalizer in the dying moments of regular time. However, it was Mikel Merino's decisive goal in extra time that secured Spain's place in the semifinals.
- Kroos' retirement marks the end of an era for German football. His career, spanning over a decade, saw him achieve numerous accolades, including a World Cup victory in 2014. His leadership and skill will be missed on the field.
