Germany and Denmark are set to face off in the round of 16 at the BVB Stadion in Dortmund on Saturday, June 29th.
Germany, who topped Group A, will be looking to continue their impressive form, having won two of their three group matches and drawing one. Denmark, who finished second in Group C, will be seeking to cause an upset after drawing all three of their group matches.
Germany's performance in the group stage was impressive, with convincing wins over Scotland and Hungary, and a late equalizer against Switzerland to secure a draw. The team has looked bright, with players like Jamal Musiala, Toni Kroos, and Florian Wirtz showcasing their skills. With the support of a partisan crowd at the BVB Stadion, Germany will be confident of advancing to their fourth EURO quarter-final in the last five editions.
Denmark, on the other hand, has proven to be a difficult opponent, with Christian Eriksen, Jonas Wind, and Rasmus Hojlund posing threats to any defense. Despite drawing all three of their group matches, Denmark has shown resilience and determination, and will be looking to cause an upset against Germany.
The two teams have a history of close matches, with three out of their last four games ending in draws. This suggests that a tight contest lies ahead, with both teams evenly matched. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann is aware of the challenge ahead, stating that Denmark is a "very well-organised team" with a "clear structure" and "experienced players." He also acknowledged the loud atmosphere at the BVB Stadion, hoping that the home crowd will inspire his team.
Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand is equally confident, stating that his team has "quality and talent" and will be ready for the challenge. He also acknowledged Germany's strengths, but believes that his team can cause an upset.
The possible line-ups for both teams suggest a strong starting eleven, with Germany's Neuer, Kimmich, and Kroos likely to start, while Denmark's Schmeichel, Eriksen, and Hojlund will be key players. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams fighting for a spot in the quarter-finals.
Germany possible starting lineup:
Neuer; Kimmich, Schlotterbeck, Rudiger, Mittelstadt; Kroos, Andrich; Musiala, Gundogan, Wirtz; Havertz
Denmark possible starting lineup:
Schmeichel; Andersen, Christensen, Vestergaard; Bah, Hojbjerg, Delaney, Maehle; Eriksen; Hojlund, Wind
The coaches said the following:
Julian Nagelsmann, Germany coach:
"Denmark are a very well-organised team. There are phases where they are very aggressive defensively but then make great one-touch attacks. They have a lot of experienced players in the squad and a clear structure. It's a tough opponent, for sure. The Dortmund stadium is usually very loud, and I have experienced it many times as an opposing coach. I hope we will have a similar noise coming from the stands tomorrow."
Kasper Hjulmand, Denmark coach:
"At the start I considered Germany one of the favourites, and it's too bad that they're playing us tomorrow. They have quality and talent, and expressed themselves very well in the group. But we also have quality and talent, and they'll have to be very, very good to beat us. We know the fans that travel to Dortmund will do their very best to inspire us. We will be ready for it."
