Germany booked their place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Denmark in a dramatic encounter at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion. The match, however, was far from straightforward. A powerful storm forced a 25-minute break in the first half, while Denmark threatened an upset throughout the contest.
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Havertz Penalty Breaks Deadlock
Following a disrupted first half due to the weather, the deadlock was finally broken early in the second period. A handball by Danish defender Joachim Andersen in the penalty area saw Germany awarded a spot-kick, which Kai Havertz coolly converted. This was Havertz’s second penalty of the tournament.
Musiala Makes His Mark
Denmark responded well to going behind, but Germany doubled their lead midway through the second half. Young Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala latched onto a perfectly-weighted long ball and slotted past the impressive Kasper Schmeichel in the Danish goal. This goal cemented Musiala’s position as the joint-top scorer of the Euros alongside Georgia’s Georges Mikautadze.
Denmark’s Missed Opportunities
Denmark will be left to rue their missed chances on the night. Earlier in the second half, they had a goal disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside in the build-up. Additionally, Andersen himself had a goal chalked off for offside moments before conceding the penalty.
Germany’s Path Ahead
Germany’s victory sets up a mouthwatering quarter-final clash next Friday in Stuttgart. Their opponents will either be the much-fancied Spain or the surprise package Georgia. While relieved to progress, head coach Julian Nagelsmann will undoubtedly be aware of the sterner challenges that lie ahead.
Denmark Departs Early
For Denmark, the tournament ends in disappointment. Having qualified from their group with three draws, they were unable to register a single victory in the knockout stages. This exit will evoke memories of their famous 1992 European Championship final victory over Germany, a feat they were unable to replicate here.
Dramatic Encounter in Dortmund
This match between Germany and Denmark will be remembered for its drama both on and off the field. The weather disruption added a unique element, while the VAR decisions and closely contested nature of the encounter kept fans on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Germany edged through thanks to their clinical finishing and will be hoping to build momentum as they progress deeper into the tournament.