"We call it German mentality."
This phrase encapsulated Germany's gritty quarter-final victory against France, as shared on social media. Despite playing over 100 minutes with just 10 players after Kathrin Hendrich was sent off for pulling Griege Mbock's hair in the box and conceding a penalty, Christian Wück's team displayed remarkable resilience. They managed to hold off France, forcing extra time and eventually triumphing in penalties.
Their place in Wednesday's semi-final against Spain was secured when goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger capped a heroic performance by saving Alice Sombath's penalty. A German newspaper hailed it as "the miracle of Basel," drawing parallels with the 1954 men's World Cup final, where West Germany overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat the favored Hungary in Bern.
Germany defender Rebecca Knaak described the performance as the "perfect example of passion and mental strength." Sophie Affeldt, a reporter for German television channel Sport1, commented that the team showcased the typical German mentality, which had perhaps waned in recent years.
But what exactly is the German mentality, and how did their monumental display against France alter perceptions of their title prospects?
'So Many Unusual Situations'
Before the tournament, Wück remarked, "I am convinced we will have a good competition, but it also depends on luck and staying injury-free." However, Germany has faced neither luck nor an injury-free run in Switzerland.
Just 40 minutes into their opening game against Poland, captain Giulia Gwinn exited the field in tears due to a serious knee injury, sidelining her for the rest of the tournament. Against Sweden, Gwinn's right-back replacement, Carlotta Wamser, received a straight red card in the 31st minute for a handball on the goal line.
Germany lost 4-1, with Sweden topping Group C. "In the group stage, the mental strength of the German team was often questioned, especially after the defeat against Sweden," noted Charlotte Bruch, a reporter for German newspaper Tagesspiegel.
With Gwinn out and Wamser suspended for the France match, Sarai Linder was shifted from her usual left-back position to the right, only to be substituted after 20 minutes due to an ankle injury.
"It says a lot about the team that we accepted every situation as it came," Knaak said. "There were so many different and unusual situations, and we adapted, accepted them, and supported each other."
Has 'Epic Game' Changed Perceptions?
Under Wück's new leadership, having taken charge in October, and with a youthful squad, Germany entered Euro 2025 with modest expectations. Statistics experts Opta gave them and France a 15% chance of winning the title, while Spain and England were the favorites.
"Germany wasn't seen as a title favorite due to the team's state of upheaval," Affeldt added. "Following the disappointing 2023 World Cup, key players like Alexander Popp retired, and new faces like Franziska Kett, Rebecca Knaak, and Giovanna Hoffmann emerged."
Bruch highlighted concerns over Germany's defense and an apparent over-reliance on flair players like Jule Brand and Klara Buhl. Affeldt mentioned that fans "lost faith" after Germany's defeat by Sweden, reinforcing pre-tournament doubts.
"But that faith has now been rekindled," she said. "Many now believe winning the title is possible, even against teams with stronger players."
Bruch concurred, noting increased belief among German fans: "The belief in winning the title has grown significantly due to Germany's performance, showcasing sheer willpower and great fighting spirit. It demonstrated that Christian Wück's team has developed resilience, never giving up, and capable of turning a game around."
'Germany Are Always Germany'
Germany is no stranger to major tournament success. The women's team has won the European Championship eight times and holds two World Cup titles. The men's team boasts four World Cup and three Euro victories.
"In Germany, we often say the national team is a 'tournament team'—they tend to find their rhythm and improve as the stakes rise," Affeldt explained.
Bruch added, "Many players in Germany grow up with a 'winning mentality.' The success of the national teams—both men's and women's—shapes their self-image."
However, Germany hasn't won a major tournament in over 11 years. Yet, Spain's head coach Montse Tomé harbors no illusions about Germany's mentality.
"Germany are always Germany," she said. "With eight European titles, their essence remains unchanged, irrespective of leadership."