How Spain's pressing overpowered a resolute Germany

World champions Spain found a way through a defensively brilliant Germany

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Spain pressed, Germany defended. In the end, an enthralling tactical battle in Wednesday’s Euro 2025 semi-final was decided by a moment of Aitana Bonmati brilliance.

Montse Tome lined Spain up in a 4-3-3 in their Euro 2025 semi-final against Germany. With Laia Aleixandri suspended, Real Madrid’s Maria Mendez replaced her in the starting lineup with Esther leading the line.

Germany, who were down to skin and bones in defence, started in a 4-5-1 formation. Christian Wuck had two natural defenders on the pitch with two attackers operating as the full-backs. Real Madrid’s Sara Dabritz made her first start while Giovanna Hoffman retained her spot as the striker. The Germans only had six outfield players on the bench.

With three midfielders in the 4-5-1, Germany matched Spain quite well, neutralizing them with a combined effort from the midfielders, the wide players and the goalkeeper. It all worked until the 112th minute when Aitana Bonmati’s shot at the near post caught Ann-Katrin Berger off her line.

Germany knew they couldn’t fight for possession against the Spaniards, especially with such a lack of true midfield options. Despite having just a third of the possession, Germany still managed a comparable tally of shots on transition.

The Germans barely got time on the ball and were forced to go long due to the Spanish press. Every fourth pass that Germany played was a long ball into the channels for Hoffmann to chase. This was by design as Wuck’s side attempted 87 long balls in this game, their most in a game at the Euros this year.