England, aiming to advance to the round of 16 of the European Championships 2024 (EURO 2024), faced Group C rivals Denmark at Deutsche Bank Park on Thursday evening (June 20).
After escaping with a 1-0 win over Serbia on Matchday 1, the Three Lions needed a strong display to fend off criticism. However, Denmark produced a superb performance and drew 1-1. In fact, England were lucky to get a draw, as the Danes had more shots on target throughout the game (16 to 12).
The conservative approach hurt England against Denmark.
Considering how star-studded the England squad is, the Three Lions shouldn’t have too much trouble dominating the proceedings against Denmark. But Gareth Southgate has been unable to find a way to get his side to reach their full potential. Phil Foden had a little more fun than he did against Serbia, but it came at the expense of Jude Bellingham’s fluidity in the middle. Bukayo Saka also performed poorly by his high standards, while the defense gave the Danish attackers too much space.
Things looked very gloomy after the game, but in the opening minute England were on course for a comfortable win. After penetrating into the opponent’s third base several times, England took the lead with Harry Kane’s goal in the 18th minute of the first half. The Bayern Munich player was lurking inside the penalty area when Kyle Walker’s deflected cross reached him. The 30-year-old applied a clinical, close-range finish to give England the lead.
Unlike most teams, Denmark did not collapse when England took the lead. They kept up the pressure and eventually equalized through Morten Hjulmand in the 34th minute. The Danish midfielder scored from outside the penalty area before scoring with an assist inside the left post. If England had not retreated, Yulmand would have had no space to attempt such a shot.
In the 56th minute of the second half, Phil Foden hit the post, and in the 85th minute, Andreas Christensen fired a shot from close range, giving both teams a chance to take the lead in the second half.
England could benefit from more dynamic substitutions
England manager Southgate fielded his strongest XI against Denmark. As the team’s tactics did not bear fruit, England coach made changes, including bringing in Conor Gallagher, Everich Eze, Jared Bowen, and Ollie Watkins. Of the players he used, only Watkins showed spark and added to England’s threat in the final third.
For the second time at EURO 2024, Southgate has decided not to nominate Cole Palmer for the 2023-24 Premier League Young Player of the Season. He also did not bring in Kobbie Mainoo, one of the most agile defensive midfielders. England could have played at a higher tempo in the second half if the duo had been given a chance to make their case. They could have gotten another opportunity or two to score a difficult winner.
