Euro 2024 hosts Germany face a crucial last-16 clash against Denmark in Dortmund on Saturday. After a rollercoaster group stage that saw dominant wins followed by a nervy draw, the Germans are looking to avoid a repeat of their 1992 Euros final upset by the Danes.
Following convincing victories over Scotland and Hungary, Germany seemed well on their way to topping the group. However, a late equalizer against Switzerland served as a stark reminder that their path to glory won’t be a cakewalk. Coach Julian Nagelsmann’s squad is under pressure to deliver, especially with fans yearning for a fourth Euros title.
Echoes of 1992: Don’t Underestimate the Danes
The upcoming match holds historical significance for both sides. Denmark’s fairytale victory in 1992, achieved after a last-minute qualification due to Yugoslavia’s exclusion, remains a cherished memory. Germany, heavy favorites then, still feels the sting of that unexpected defeat.
Berti Vogts, a Euros and World Cup winner who coached Germany in that fateful final, recently acknowledged their underestimation of the Danes. He cautions the current squad against making the same mistake. Denmark, well-drilled and boasting talented players in top European clubs, bears a resemblance to the 2020 Euros semi-finalists, Switzerland.
While Vogts admits the current Danish squad might not have the same individual brilliance as their 1992 counterparts, they are a hungry team playing without pressure. This, combined with the weight of expectation on Germany’s shoulders, could create a similar upset scenario.
Nagelsmann’s Selection Dilemma
While Germany struggled in 2023, they remain unbeaten in 2024. Nagelsmann’s consistency in selecting the same starting eleven has contributed to this stability. However, the policy comes with a cost. Defender Jonathan Tah’s second yellow card against Switzerland means he’ll miss the Denmark clash, leaving a void to be filled by the talented but unpredictable Nico Schlotterbeck.
Another injury concern surrounds Antonio Rudiger, who might miss the match with a hamstring issue. While Schlotterbeck expressed hope for Rudiger’s return, he acknowledged the mental challenges of returning from a similar injury.
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Despite these concerns, Schlotterbeck confidently stated that the Germans are well-prepared for Denmark, emphasizing their awareness of the Danish game plan. He also expressed excitement about playing in his home stadium, where the iconic “Yellow Wall” of Borussia Dortmund fans will be transformed into a “wall of white” to support the national team.
Havertz or Fullkrug? A Potential Shift in Tactics
Tah’s absence isn’t the only selection headache for Nagelsmann. The coach might consider replacing Arsenal’s Kai Havertz with Niclas Fullkrug, the striker who has impressed with two goals off the bench. Fullkrug, who defied expectations by making his national team debut at 29 after playing in the second division just two years ago, embodies the spirit of perseverance. He himself downplays concerns about his role as a substitute, prioritizing the team’s success above individual glory.
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Germany enters the knockout stage with lessons learned and a determined spirit. Whether they can overcome the Danish challenge and avoid the mistakes of the past will unfold on Saturday in Dortmund.
