A tense game in Zurich was ticking down towards penalties when reigning Ballon d’Or winner Bonmati struck in the 113th minute, surprising the usually reliable German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger at her near post.
It was not one of the Barcelona star’s most influential performances, yet she still delivered when it mattered to keep Spain on course to win their first European crown.
“We knew that the goalkeeper often leaves her near post open in these situations, so I didn’t think twice. I didn’t want the game to go to penalties,” said a beaming Bonmati.
Spain were also grateful to goalkeeper Cata Coll for some vital interventions, including a spectacular double save to deny Klara Buehl and Carlotta Wamser right at the end of normal time.
The Spaniards will now face reigning European champions England on Sunday in Basel in what will be a repeat of the 2023 World Cup decider, when La Roja triumphed 1-0 in Sydney.
If Montse Tome’s side come out on top again, they will become the first nation to hold both the world and European titles at the same time since Germany almost 15 years ago.
Spain had never beaten Germany before, and now they advance to their first ever Euro final, with the chance to cement their status as the leading force in women’s football.
“We have made history again today, getting to a first Euro final and beating Germany for the first time,” said Bonmati.
“We are proud to be part of this generation of players, but this is not over yet,” she added. “We can enjoy this and then tomorrow we need to start thinking about England.”
Germany, meanwhile, had been hoping to avenge their defeat by England in the last Euro final in 2022, but they will not add to their record tally of eight European Championship victories.
“She doesn’t have to take responsibility. She made so many wonderful saves to get us where we are,” Germany coach Christian Wueck said of goalkeeper Berger. “There is no blame, we are very proud of the team.” (AFP)