The excitement in Germany is palpable as Euro 2024 hosts Germany prepare to take on Denmark in the Round of 16 on Saturday in Dortmund. Both teams have showcased resilience in the group stage, with Germany securing two wins and Denmark remaining undefeated with three draws.
Germany is eager to break their knockout stage drought, having not won a knockout game in a major international tournament since Euro 2016. Denmark, on the other hand, is looking to build on their impressive run in 2021, where they reached the semifinals—their second-best performance in Euros history. Both teams were previously eliminated by England in the last edition, with Germany exiting in the Round of 16.
Team dynamics are shifting due to suspensions and injuries. Germany’s center-back Jonathan Tah is suspended for the match, paving the way for Nico Schlotterbeck to step in. Additionally, if Antonio Rüdiger doesn’t recover from a hamstring injury, Waldemar Anton may make his Euro 2024 debut as his replacement.
Denmark faces its own challenges, missing midfielder Morten Hjulmand due to suspension after accumulating two yellow cards. Christian Eriksen and Thomas Delaney missed Friday’s training due to stomach issues, though Eriksen is expected to play against Germany.
Germany’s coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed confidence in leveraging the home advantage. “I have always been here as the away team and it felt like the match started 1-0 for Dortmund because the crowd is so loud. I hope we get a similar pressure coming from the stands for our opponent,” said Nagelsmann, who took charge of the national team after coaching Bayern Munich.
Denmark’s coach Kasper Hjulmand is equally enthusiastic about the clash. “I really love football here in Germany. And playing against Germany there, with the Danish team, can’t be better, I can’t wait. It’s a great team. But we are a great team as well. And when we play big nations we always step up,” he said.
The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two determined teams, each eager to advance further in the tournament. Football fans around the world, including those in Asia who follow European football with great interest, will be watching closely as the action unfolds in Dortmund.
Reference(s):
Germany aim to ride host-nation buzz against Denmark at Euro 2024
cgtn.com
