Germany Vs Denmark

The second of two Euro 2024 last-16 ties taking place on Saturday sees hosts Germany clash with Denmark at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund in the late kickoff. Julian Nagelsmann's men topped Group A to cruise into the knockout rounds, while their Scandinavian counterparts nabbed second place in a highly forgettable Group C.

Match Preview

Banishing the demons of their last two World Cup campaigns, which both ended with premature group-stage exits, Germany had already rubber-stamped their knockout place with just two games gone thanks to putting a combined seven goals past Scotland and Hungary. Simply avoiding defeat versus Switzerland on the final matchday meant Die Mannschaft were guaranteed to progress as group winners, but Nagelsmann's men were on the brink of being unexpectedly demoted to the runners-up spot thanks to Dan Ndoye's opener. However, on an evening of dramatic late goals in Group A, Niclas Fullkrug - who takes to home turf this weekend - popped up with an injury-time leveller to just about ensure Germany's status as group winners, thereby avoiding a last-16 battle with reigning champions Italy.

In a peculiar turn of events, though, Switzerland are arguably now on the easier side of the knockout draw, as Germany have been grouped with fellow heavyweights Spain, France, Portugal, and Belgium as their reward for winning the group and reaching the last 16 for the fifth time in a row. A quarter-final clash with either Spain or the unfancied Georgia will await if Germany can do the business against Denmark, and they arrive at Borussia Dortmund's headquarters still unbeaten from their seven matches in the calendar year, prevailing in five and playing out two draws.

Speaking of one-point affairs, Group C was one for the stalemate specialists in England, Slovenia, Serbia, and Denmark, all of whom contributed to the joint lowest-scoring men's Euros group in history with just seven goals scored across six games. Upcoming foes Germany were coincidentally involved in the only previous seven-goal section in 2016, and despite not winning any of their games in the group, Denmark's three draws with their three foes were enough for Kasper Hjulmand's side to clinch the silver medal position. The Danes were responsible for just two of the seven strikes in Group C - although Morten Hjulmand's rocket versus England will certainly go down as a goal-of-the-tournament contender - and they have now qualified for the knockout stages of back-to-back Euros for the first time ever.

Hjulmand will be under no illusions that improvements are required quickly if his troops are to stand a chance of shocking the tournament hosts, but they coincidentally share Germany's seven-match unbeaten run in 2024 and have just one loss under their belts from their last 15 contests. However, Germany emerged triumphant over Denmark during their last competitive showdown at the 2012 European Championships - prevailing 2-1 in the group phase thanks to Lukasz Podolski and Lars Bender - but both friendly encounters since have ended 1-1.

Germany's Journey So Far

Germany's journey through the group stages of Euro 2024 has been marked by a blend of resilience, skill, and a touch of drama. Under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, the German squad has displayed a cohesive and attacking style of play that has thrilled their fans and instilled a sense of optimism within their ranks. The team opened their campaign with a dominant 4-1 victory over Scotland, where their attacking prowess was on full display. The trio of Serge Gnabry, Kai Havertz, and Leroy Sane ran riot, with Havertz bagging a brace. The defense, marshaled by the experienced Antonio Rudiger and the youthful exuberance of Nico Schlotterbeck, held firm, allowing Germany to assert their dominance from the outset.

Their second match against Hungary was expected to be a sterner test, but Germany rose to the occasion with a clinical 3-0 win. Goals from Jamal Musiala, Leon Goretzka, and Timo Werner ensured their passage to the knockout stages with a game to spare. Despite this, the final group match against Switzerland provided a wake-up call. The Swiss, needing a result to secure their own progression, took the lead through Ndoye, and Germany looked uncharacteristically sluggish. It wasn't until the dying moments that Niclas Fullkrug's header salvaged a draw, preserving Germany's unbeaten record and top spot in Group A.

Denmark's Road to the Knockouts

Denmark's route to the last 16 has been a tale of grit and determination. Drawn in a group alongside England, Slovenia, and Serbia, the Danes were involved in a series of tight, low-scoring encounters. Their opening game against Serbia ended in a 0-0 draw, a match characterized by solid defensive performances and few clear-cut chances. The second fixture saw them face England, where Morten Hjulmand's stunning strike was canceled out by Harry Kane's equalizer, resulting in another draw.

Denmark's final group match against Slovenia was a must-win for both sides, but it ended in a 1-1 draw, with Jonas Wind scoring for Denmark. Despite not winning a single game, their three points from three draws were enough to secure second place in the group, thanks to a combination of favorable results elsewhere and their superior defensive record. While the lack of goals is a concern for Hjulmand, the Danish defense, led by Simon Kjaer and Andreas Christensen, has been a standout feature, conceding just two goals in the group stage.

Key Players to Watch

Germany

Kai Havertz: The Chelsea playmaker has been in scintillating form for Germany, providing creativity and a goal threat from midfield. His ability to find space and link up with the forward line will be crucial against Denmark's organized defense.

Jamal Musiala: The Bayern Munich starlet has been a revelation for Germany, combining technical skill with fearless attacking play. His dribbling and vision make him a constant threat, and he could be the key to unlocking Denmark's defense.

Antonio Rudiger: At the back, Rudiger's experience and leadership will be vital. His physical presence and ability to read the game will be essential in keeping Denmark's forwards at bay.

Denmark

Morten Hjulmand: The midfielder's stunning goal against England showcased his ability to strike from distance. Hjulmand's energy and tenacity in the middle of the park will be crucial in disrupting Germany's rhythm.

Jonas Wind: Denmark's main goal threat, Wind's movement and aerial ability will be vital in exploiting any gaps in Germany's defense. His hold-up play will also be important in bringing his teammates into play.

Simon Kjaer: The experienced defender will have the task of organizing Denmark's backline. Kjaer's leadership and positioning will be key in keeping Germany's attackers at bay.

Tactical Battle

The tactical battle between Julian Nagelsmann and Kasper Hjulmand promises to be a fascinating one. Nagelsmann's Germany has been characterized by high pressing, quick transitions, and fluid attacking play. Their ability to overload the midfield and create numerical advantages in wide areas has been a key feature of their play. The full-backs, particularly Joshua Kimmich and Robin Gosens, provide width and are crucial in stretching opposition defenses.

In contrast, Hjulmand's Denmark is built on a solid defensive foundation and quick counter-attacks. The Danes are likely to sit deep, absorb pressure, and look to exploit Germany on the break. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Hjulmand needing to disrupt Germany's passing rhythm and prevent them from dictating the tempo of the game.

Set-pieces could also play a significant role in this encounter. Germany's aerial prowess, particularly through Rudiger and Fullkrug, poses a threat from corners and free-kicks, while Denmark's disciplined defensive setup will look to neutralize this threat and perhaps capitalize on their own set-piece opportunities.

Historical Context

Germany and Denmark share a rich footballing history, with memorable encounters that have left a lasting impact on both nations. The most notable of these was the 1992 European Championship final, where Denmark, against all odds, defeated Germany 2-0 to lift the trophy. That historic victory remains one of the greatest upsets in European football history and serves as a reminder that anything is possible in knockout football.

Their last competitive meeting came at Euro 2012, where Germany emerged victorious with a 2-1 win in the group stage. Goals from Lukas Podolski and Lars Bender secured the win for Germany, but Denmark's resilience and fighting spirit were evident throughout the match. In recent years, the teams have met in friendly matches, with both encounters ending in 1-1 draws, highlighting the competitive nature of this fixture.

Prediction

Predicting the outcome of such a high-stakes match is always challenging, but Germany's form and home advantage make them slight favorites. Their attacking depth and ability to score from various positions give them the edge. However, Denmark's defensive solidity and ability to spring a surprise on the counter should not be underestimated. If the Danes can frustrate Germany and take their chances on the break, an upset could be on the cards.

Ultimately, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams leaving everything on the pitch in their quest for a place in the quarter-finals. Germany's attacking prowess may just tip the balance in their favor, but Denmark's resilience ensures that they will be no pushovers. Expect a tightly contested match with moments of brilliance and drama, as both teams vie for glory in Euro 2024.

Conclusion

The clash between Germany and Denmark in the Euro 2024 last-16 promises to be a fascinating encounter. Germany's attacking flair and Denmark's defensive resilience set the stage for a tactical battle that could go either way.