Cancer survivor Berger made two saves in the shootout after an excellent shift prior to the shootout, and the second of her saves ensured Germany's progression to the last four, where it will meet world champion Spain for a place in the final.

Berger made 11 saves in total after Kathrin Hendrich received the earliest red card in Women's Euros history after 13 minutes.

Germany's goalkeeper was beaten from the spot in the 15th minute, when France was awarded a penalty after a video assistant referee (VAR) check revealed a Hendrich haad pulled the hair of Griedge Mbock.

Grace Geyoro's made no mistake from 12 yards, but her effort was cancelled out by Sjoeke Nusken's header 10 minutes later.

France duo Delphine Cascarino and Geyoro saw goals disallowed, while Nuskin missed a penalty of her own when Pauline Peyraud-Magnin made a great save low to her right.

Having made an incredible save to prevent a possible own goal from Janina Minge in extra-time, Berger had her crossbar to thank when Melvine Malard clattered the woodwork to send the game to penalties.

Berger kept out Amel Majri's awkward strike, but France equalised with its fourth spot-kick after Sara Dabritz, who came on specifically to take a penalty, skied her shot while Sandy Baltimore buried hers.

Yet Berger was the hero in sudden death, as she lunged to her left to deny Alice Sombath and tee up a mouthwatering clash with Spain and a chance to reach a second successive European championship final.