Julian Nagelsmann's German squad topped Group A convincingly to advance to the knockout stage, while Denmark secured second place in Group C, a group that saw very few goals scored.
Germany, keen to erase memories of early exits in recent World Cups, secured their spot in the knockout stage early with dominant performances against Scotland and Hungary, scoring a total of seven goals. A late equalizer against Switzerland ensured they finished atop their group, avoiding a potentially tougher last-16 match against Italy.
In contrast, Denmark progressed through Group C with a series of draws, including a notable goal against England. They enter the knockout stage having qualified for consecutive Euros for the first time in their history, although they face a tough challenge against Germany, who have been unbeaten in 2024 so far.
The upcoming match revives memories of their 2012 encounter at the European Championships, where Germany won 2-1 in the group stage. Despite recent friendly matches ending in draws, both teams will be eager to claim victory and advance to the quarter-finals.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Germany's coach Nagelsmann has relied on the same starting eleven throughout all three of their Group A matches. However, he faces a change for the upcoming game as Jonathan Tah received two yellow cards and will serve a suspension. Additionally, Tah's usual defensive partner, Antonio Rudiger, has been dealing with a hamstring issue and missed training earlier in the week. Despite this, there's hope he can lead Germany's defense, likely alongside Nico Schlotterbeck.Should Rudiger be unable to play, Robin Koch and Waldemar Anton are ready substitutes. Niclas Fullkrug's impactful goal against Switzerland adds another option for Nagelsmann in attack although Kai Havertz's position seems secure.
Denmark's coach Hjulmand also has adjustments to make due to a suspension, with Morten Hjulmand from Sporting Lisbon unavailable due to accumulated yellow cards. However, Hjulmand has capable replacements in Christian Norgaard and Mathias Jensen of Brentford, along with Thomas Delaney, who recovered from illness to feature against Serbia.
Further forward, Jonas Wind's recent performances haven't been up to par since his assist for Christian Eriksen against Slovenia. This opens up opportunities for Andreas Skov Olsen, Kasper Dolberg, or Yussuf Poulsen to potentially replace him in the lineup.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
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
EXPERT PREDICTION
Germany 2-1 Denmark
Denmark, known for their competitive nature at Euro 2024, have kept matches tight. However, even with changes in Germany's defense, they shouldn't struggle to fend off Denmark's often ineffective attacks. It seems likely that Nagelsmann's squad will advance to the quarter-finals.
