Pedri’s Injury and Impact
Barcelona midfielder Pedri is set to miss the remainder of Euro 2024 after suffering an injury in Spain’s quarter-final victory over hosts Germany. The 21-year-old was tackled by Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos early in the game, attempting to continue but ultimately limping off within ten minutes, visibly distressed.
Spain’s Reaction and Official Statement
Spain’s bench quickly consoled Pedri, while head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his anger towards the officials for not booking Kroos for the challenge. Spain’s medical team later confirmed an internal lateral sprain to Pedri’s left knee, with further tests pending to determine the injury’s full extent.
Match Physicality and Reactions
The match’s physical nature surprised many, including former European champion Ruud Gullit. Speaking to beIN SPORTS, Gullit noted, “It looked like old days football, going in hard with the first challenge and not getting booked. The Spanish will be furious, and the newspapers will reflect that.”
Dramatic Quarter-Final Outcome
The quarter-final clash saw Florian Wirtz equalize Dani Olmo’s second-half goal in the dying moments, pushing the match into extra time. Spain ultimately clinched victory with Mikel Merino’s header in the final minute, securing their place in the semi-finals against either France or Portugal.
Germany’s Exit and Kroos’ Farewell
Hosts Germany, despite their spirited performance, failed to progress to the semi-finals of their home tournament. The match also marked the end of an era for retiring legend Toni Kroos, who exits the international stage without the hoped-for fairy-tale finish.
[…] forgiveness towards Germany’s Toni Kroos for the challenge that ended his Euro 2024 campaign. Pedri sustained a left knee injury early in Spain’s quarterfinal victory over Germany, resulting from a robust tackle by Kroos. […]