Germany cruised past dangerous Denmark to enter the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. The host dominated the proceedings from the first whistle and had luck on their side to secure a comfortable 2-0 victory over Denmark, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala.
Match Result:
Goalscorers:
Germany: Kai Havertz (53’) (P), Jamal Musiala (68’) 
First Half Analysis
The first half ended in a stalemate, though Denmark could have taken the lead had Rasmus Hojlund converted an easy chance. Germany, despite dominating, was inefficient in the final third. Toni Kroos looked in red-hot form and created several serious chances for their attacking line.
Key Points:
VAR disallowed Nico Schlotterbeck’s goal.
Germany dominated with Toni Kroos leading the charge.
Rasmus Hojlund missed a late chance in the 45th minute.
Second Half Highlights
Germany kept pressing in the second half, but Denmark relied on quick counters. It paid off once but the goal was disallowed because of an offside. Germany’s persistence paid off when they earned a penalty after a handball, and Havertz provided the perfect finish to give them the lead. Germany kept attacking and were rewarded when Musiala scored from a beautiful long ball off Schlotterbeck. The game became one-sided after the second goal as Germany controlled the play.
Key Points:
Early scare from Denmark through counters.
Havertz converted the penalty after a handball.
Musiala dominated with a perfect finish on Schlotterbeck’s long ball.
Match Defining Moments
Kroos Control:
Toni Kroos’ dominance throughout the game was the biggest highlight. He was rampant from the first whistle and looked unstoppable with the ball. Although his early cross was disallowed, he continued to excel in both attack and defense, winning the key battles against Eriksen and Hojbjerg.
Musiala’s Rejuvenation:
Germany dominated from the start but lacked a final touch. Julian Nagelsmann’s tactical change to include Sane did not work in the first half, as Musiala was off form. However, Musiala improved in the second half, making strong runs and eventually scoring from Schlotterbeck’s perfect pass.
Schlotterbeck’s Long Balls:
Nagelsmann’s decision to drop experienced defenders Niklas Sule and Matts Hummels for Euro 2024 in favor of young Schlotterbeck paid off. Schlotterbeck’s vision was clear in this game. While Denmark played a structured game, Germany lacked opportunities until Schlotterbeck started dictating terms from the back. The Borussia Dortmund defender completely changed the game and was the difference maker.
Implications and Future Prospects
Germany will be extremely happy with this win, especially the second-half adaptation of their attack. Julian Nagelsmann has been spot-on with changes and tactics, making Germany strong title contenders. With experienced players like Rudiger, Kroos, Kimmich, and Neuer, Germany looks impeccable. They will now face the winner of the Spain vs. Georgia clash.
Denmark struggled in the game, but the story could have been different if Hojlund had converted his chance at the end of the first half. Their forward line struggled, summarizing their campaign. They looked good in patches, but their attack often let them down.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Germany vs. Spain/Georgia: July 5
Conclusion:
Germany dominated throughout the game, proving why they are considered strong contenders for the title. Their attack still has questions to answer, but Jamal Musiala has been the star so far. They will now face the winner of the Spain vs. Georgia clash in the quarter-finals.
