"This is football and these things happen" - Pedri responds to Toni Kroos' apology after Spain star's injury in Euro 2024 clash against Germany
Spain midfielder Pedri has responded to former Germany midfielder Toni Kroos' apology. This comes after their UEFA Euro 2024 quarter-final clash at MHPArena on Friday, July 5.
Kroos made a tackle in the first few minutes of the game which saw Pedri go down. The German wasn't booked for the challenge despite many believing he should have. The Spanish youngster, meanwhile, tried to continue but went down and had to be subbed off in the eighth minute.
La Roja eventually won 2-1 after extra time and Germany were eliminated. After the game, Toni Kroos wrote an emotional message for the German fans on his Instagram account. At the end of his message, the now-retired Real Madrid legend also apologised to Pedri, writing:
"Forgiveness and get well soon to @pedri! Logically it wasn't my intention to hurt you. A speedy recovery and all the best. You are a great player."
The Barcelona midfielder has now responded, writing (via Madrid Xtra):
"Thank you Toni Kroos for your message. This is football and these things happen. Your career and your achievements remain forever."
Pedri will now miss the remainder of the Euro 2024 due to the injury. Spain will face France in the semi-final at the Allianz Arena on July 9.
Spain got past Germany in Euro 2024 quarter-finals to set up enticing clash against France
Spain and hosts Germany were arguably the two most exciting teams at Euro 2024. Hence, there was a lot of expectation ahead of their quarter-final clash on Friday and it certainly lived up to the billing.
Both sides created multiple chances but failed to score in the first half. Dani Olmo then gave La Roja the lead in the 51st minute via a Lamine Yamal cross. Germany pushed on and Kai Havertz missed a glorious chance to equalise. Substitute Florian Wirtz eventually restored parity in the 89th minute from a Joshua Kimmich assist.
Both sides again failed to capitalise on their chances for much of the second half. However, just when it looked set to go down to penalties, Mikel Merino headed in from an Olmo cross in the 119th minute. Dani Carvajal was later sent off in stoppage time after receiving his second yellow card.
Spain had 18 attempts in the game with six being on target while Germany had 23 attempts with five being on target. The Euro 2024 hosts edged out in possession with 52% but lost the game.