Spain were delirious after Mikel Merino’s 119th-minute winner sent them into the semi-finals of Euro 2024, but for opponents Germany, the overriding feelings were frustration and anger, especially towards referee Anthony Taylor and his officiating team.
In particular, the Germans were furious at the decision not to be awarded a penalty during extra time, after Jamal Musiala’s shot struck the arm of Marc Cucurella. Julian Nagelsmann, Germany’s head coach, fumed about the decision when he spoke to the media post-match (via MD).
“He whistled a little in favour of Spain.
“It’s difficult to understand (why it wasn’t a penalty). Judging the matter in a footballing sense, if the ball had flown towards the old town of Stuttgart, then it would never be a penalty, but if the ball goes towards goal then it is clearly a penalty. Musiala’s shot was very good, it probably would have even gone in, and the hand is stretched out, very far from his body.”
Taylor was strong in his turning down of the appeals at the time, and VAR agreed with him, much to the Germans’ fury. Spain will take no notice of the complaints and accusations of bias, as they look forward to their semi-final showdown against France on Tuesday.