Germany’s journey to the semifinals of Euro 2025 came in dramatic fashion on Saturday night, as goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger delivered one of the most remarkable performances in European Championship history to help her side edge France 6-5 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
While the spotlight was firmly on Berger for her heroics between the posts, the occasion held deeper significance for the 34-year-old. A two-time cancer survivor, Berger’s journey back to the top of the game has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her resilience shone through again as she produced nine saves in open play — the most by any player in a Women’s Euro knockout game since 2013, according to the BBC.
The standout moment came in the 102nd minute of extra time when Berger pulled off a stunning backward dive to claw away a looping header from her own teammate, Janina Minge, which was heading toward goal. But her night wasn’t done.
In the penalty shootout, Berger immediately set the tone by saving Amel Majri’s opening spot-kick for France. She later stepped up to take and score Germany’s fourth penalty herself before diving low to deny Alice Sombath’s attempt — sealing victory for Germany. As the ball was saved, Berger collapsed to her knees with a beaming smile, soon engulfed by her ecstatic teammates.
The quarterfinal win carries particular weight for Berger. It was during the 2022 Euros that she learned her thyroid cancer had returned after her initial diagnosis in 2017. In both instances, she returned to football just months after beginning treatment, crediting the sport with helping her maintain her mental strength. “Football saved my brain and saved my mental health because I had something to hold on to,” she told Sky Sports previously.
On the field, Germany had to overcome early adversity. They fell behind in the 13th minute after defender Kathrin Hendrich was shown a red card for pulling Griedge Mbock’s hair in the penalty area. Grace Geyoro converted the penalty to give France the lead and a one-player advantage.
Germany, however, responded quickly. Sjoeke Nüsken equalized in the 25th minute with a powerful near-post header from Klara Bühl’s corner. Both sides had goals ruled out for offside, and Nüsken missed a penalty in the 69th minute, but Berger’s saves ultimately ensured Germany advanced.
Germany will now face reigning world champions Spain in the semifinals on Wednesday — a challenge made possible by their indomitable goalkeeper, whose courage on and off the pitch continues to inspire.
