Germany defeats Denmark to reach Euro 2024 quarter-finals

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By Martin Graham | 30th Jun 2024Germany secured their place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a victory against Denmark, thanks to goals from Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz. The match, held at Borussia Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion, saw dramatic interruptions and pivotal VAR decisions.

Storm disrupts first halfThe intense match faced a significant delay towards the end of the first half due to a fierce storm. Lightning and heavy hail led to a suspension of play for around 20 minutes as the pitch was drenched. Despite the weather, the game resumed, continuing the battle for a spot in the next round.

Controversial VAR decisionsVAR played a crucial role in the game, with several key moments influenced by video reviews. Early in the match, Nico Schlotterbeck’s header was disallowed after a VAR review. Later, Denmark experienced a similar fate when Joachim Andersen’s goal was overturned due to Thomas Delaney being marginally offside. Germany then benefitted from another VAR intervention when a handball by Andersen led to a penalty, which Havertz converted, putting Germany ahead.

Germany found themselves on the favorable side of another crucial VAR decision. Shortly after Andersen’s disallowed goal, referee Michael Oliver was prompted to review a handball incident involving Andersen. Upon review, a penalty was awarded, and Havertz confidently slotted the ball past Kasper Schmeichel, igniting the home crowd.

Musiala seals the winAfter the VAR-assisted penalty, Havertz missed an opportunity to score a second goal, clipping his shot wide. However, Germany extended their lead with just over 20 minutes left on the clock. Musiala broke through on the left side and calmly finished into the far corner, sealing the victory. The home fans, elated by the performance, cheered their team on until the final whistle.

The forward should have doubled his tally soon after when he chipped the ball over Schmeichel, only to see it go wide. The decisive moment came when young star Musiala sprinted down the left flank and slotted a precise shot into the far corner. From that point on, the German supporters were on their feet, cheering their team with hopes of more goals.

Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer