LOOKING to secure a spot in the Euro 2024 knockout rounds with a game to spare, England face Denmark in Group C at the Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt on Thursday evening.
This encounter marks the first meeting between the two nations since England’s dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory in the Euro 2020 semi-finals at Wembley Stadium.
Denmark’s Resilience and Eriksen’s Return
Exactly 1,100 days after his cardiac arrest at Euro 2020, Christian Eriksen made a heartwarming return to the continental stage, scoring the opening goal in Denmark’s 1-1 draw with Slovenia.
Eriksen netted in the 17th minute with a composed finish, but Slovenia equalized through a deflected long-range effort from Erik Janza, sharing the spoils in their Group C opener.
Denmark’s head coach Kasper Hjulmand acknowledged his team’s lack of intensity in the closing stages against Slovenia and urged his players to maintain high energy levels throughout the match to secure crucial points.
Despite being ranked 21st in the world, Denmark has been tough to beat, losing only one of their last 13 internationals since March 2023.
However, they have struggled in the European Championship group stages, winning just one of their last six matches (W1 D1 L4).
The Euro 1992 champions have historically found it challenging against England, winning only four of their previous 22 encounters.
Another failure to claim maximum points could see them exit the group stage for the second consecutive major tournament, following their early exit at the 2022 World Cup.
England’s Positive Start
England’s Euro 2024 campaign began positively with a 1-0 victory over Serbia, inspired by Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.
The 20-year-old midfielder headed home Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross in the 13th minute, but England couldn’t build on their early dominance, facing a resurgent Serbian side in the second half.
Gareth Southgate praised his team’s defensive resilience as they held on for the win, putting them two points clear of Denmark and Slovenia.
A victory against Denmark on Thursday would guarantee England’s progression to the last 16.
England’s defensive record has been impressive, becoming the first team in European Championship history to keep five consecutive group stage clean sheets.
They have not lost a group stage match since their Euro 2004 opener against France, boasting eight wins and four draws since then.
Victory against Denmark would also mark the first time England have won their opening two matches at a Euros tournament.
Anticipation for Thursday’s Clash
While England aims to make history with back-to-back group stage wins, Denmark is determined to overcome their recent struggles and stay in contention.
This high-stakes clash promises excitement as both teams vie for a spot in the knockout rounds.
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