Midfielder Georgia Stanway became a quarter-final hero when in the sixth minute of extra time she went alone and got on a distinct ankle shot unattainable for the Spanish goalkeeper Sandra Paños.
The goal was 2-1 and the 28,994 spectators in Brighton, most of them English supporters, were able to breathe a sigh of relief. The semi-final place was salvaged. There, England can face Sweden, if Sweden wins its quarter-final against Belgium on Friday.
England dominated the group stage. With 14-0 in goal difference, including after 8-0 against Norway. But the dominance was transformed into a nervous drama in the quarterfinals. Against a Spain that came second in its group after two victories and a loss against the group leader Germany and with 5–3 in goal difference.
González goal scorer
Spain initially did as in the three group games – kept the ball but did not get any hot goal chances. In all their group matches, Spain had at least 65 percent of the ball possession.
After just over half an hour of play, Spain no longer managed to stop the English from advancing on the edges, in the game that has been so successful so far in the European Championships. And with a free kick, Ellen White also managed to hit the ball in goal – but waved away for offside. A moment later, White nodded outside.
At half time, Spain replaced Athenea del Castillo on the right in the offensive, which turned out to be a stroke of genius. After 54 minutes, Esther González sent a free kick in high over the penalty box.
Shortly afterwards, two English strikers were removed – White and World Cup shooter Beth Mead, who scored five goals.
England and the large English crowd in Brighton then hoped to get a penalty when Lauren Hempl fell in the penalty area, but was denied it.
Good exchange
England captain Sarina Wiegman, back after the corona quarantine, continued to exchange stars. This time midfield giant Fran Kirby.
The exchanges paid off. After 84 minutes, Laruen Hemp came in from the right, feinted, then sped past the off-balance defender to make the score 1 – 0, giving Ella Toone the lead.
1-1 the match stood out and the decision was made in extra time.