By Abubakar Yunusa
A Kai Havertz penalty and a Jamal Musiala strike secured Germany’s 2-0 victory over Denmark, propelling the hosts into the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The match in Dortmund faced a 25-minute delay due to a violent storm featuring torrential rain, hailstones, and lightning.
Havertz converted a penalty early in the second half following a handball by Denmark’s Joachim Andersen, who had a goal disallowed moments earlier. Musiala added the second goal midway through the half, showcasing Germany’s superiority.
The game, officiated by English referee Michael Oliver, was paused in the 35th minute due to the storm. Despite the weather disruptions, Germany emerged stronger, maintaining their hopes of clinching the trophy in Berlin on July 14.
Germany will next face either Spain or Georgia in Stuttgart. Denmark exits the tournament winless, having drawn all their group matches.
Julian Nagelsmann made strategic changes following Germany’s 1-1 draw with Switzerland. Nico Schlotterbeck, David Raum, and Leroy Sane were brought in, with Schlotterbeck having an early goal disallowed due to a foul by Joshua Kimmich.
Despite multiple attempts, including efforts from Kimmich and Havertz thwarted by Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, Germany’s persistence paid off after the storm-induced break. Havertz’s penalty, following a VAR review, broke the deadlock.
Denmark’s Andersen experienced further frustration when his goal was ruled out by VAR for offside. Shortly after, his handball resulted in Havertz’s penalty.
Musiala sealed the victory, becoming the joint-top scorer of the tournament. Although Florian Wirtz had a late goal disallowed for offside, Germany’s momentum remains strong heading into the next round.
