A rollercoaster of a game in the U-19 EUROs saw Antonio Cordero involved in an absolute classic today, featuring ELEVEN goals, two hat-tricks, a missed penalty and extra-time drama.
With a spot in Thursday’s final at stake, Cordero had enjoyed a strong start to the tournament with two goal involvements, and hoped to build on his group stage performances in the semi-final.
Somehow, the tournament favourites survived 120 minutes of chaos and now have a chance of retaining their trophy after a day of mixed emotions for our new signing from Malaga.
🇪🇺🚨 ANTONITO CORDERO MISSED THE PENALTY!!!
🇪🇸❌
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— Rising Stars XI (@RisingStarXI) June 23, 2025
Prior to Monday’s game, Germany’s 5-5 draw with England in the group stage was a lock for the most dramatic game of the tournament.
But the Germans found themselves embroiled in another thriller just days after, and this time weren’t as fortunate to escape with a point.
The game got off to a nightmare start for Spain however, as Germany took the lead in the 28th minute through Hoffenheim’s Max Moerstedt.
Cordero had the chance to level things up from the penalty spot just minutes later, but his powerful strike was just saved by Konstantin Heide: a rare mistake from our youngster this tournament.
The show belonged to 18-year-old Pablo García however, as he found a equaliser just after the hour mark.
Germany retook the lead through Said El Mala and until stoppage time it looked like Spain’s reign as European Champions would be coming to an end.
And then Pablo Garcia popped up once again, this time with an incredible stoppage time brace to make it 3-2. But a devastating own goal from Cuenca in the ninth minute forced the game into extra time.
The madness didn’t end there for either side, as the two traded goals until Garcia struck his fourth of the game to finally put Spain 6-5 and see Paco Gallardo’s men through to yet another final.
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After the result of tonight’s game in Bucharest, Spain will now play one of the Netherlands or Romania in Thursday night’s final.
Despite missing a penalty and only playing 45 minutes, Cordero looks to still be likely to start for Spain, offering him a chance at redemption and to win the first big trophy of his blossoming career.
Once the tournament concludes, Cordero will no doubt be scouted by some of Europe’s top sides over a potential loan move, where Ajax have been previously hinted at as a potential destination for the teenager.