Denmark’s Euro 1992 victory was a momentous occasion for the country, and now, under the leadership of manager Kasper Hjulmand, they are hoping for another strong performance in Euro 2024. The Danish team demonstrated incredible resilience and unity during Euro 2020, overcoming Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest to reach the semi-finals. Many of the players from that squad are still with the team, including experienced figures like Kasper Schmeichel, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, and Simon Kjaer.
The squad also boasts several notable Premier League players, such as Crystal Palace’s Joachim Andersen, Brentford’s Mathias Jensen and Christian Norgaard, and Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund. With a solid qualifying campaign that saw them top their group with seven wins from ten matches, Denmark has gained momentum heading into Euro 2024. They will face Slovenia again in Group C, having already faced them twice during qualifying.
Denmark’s desire to perform at a major tournament is fueled by their disappointing showing at the Qatar World Cup in 2022, where they finished bottom of their group with one point. Kasper Hjulmand, who played in America for North Florida Ospreys and later became Thomas Tuchel’s successor at Mainz in 2014, will be looking to lead his team to success.
One key player to watch for Denmark is 21-year-old Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United. Despite the team’s struggles in the Premier League, Hojlund has been a bright spot with his tireless work ethic and clinical finishing. His contributions will be crucial to Denmark’s attacking prowess.
In terms of tactics, Denmark is known for their structured and patient approach to building their attacks. They are willing to push players forward into advanced positions to stretch the pitch and provide options for their midfielders. With four attackers pushing up against the opposition, Denmark aims to dominate the game and make it difficult for their opponents to counterattack.
Defensively, Denmark excels in their shape and structure. They often drop into a solid 5-4-1 formation when the opposition is building an attack. However, they are also capable of pressing aggressively and quickly regaining possession. Players like Hojlund and Yusuf Poulsen lead the press, while Eriksen adds an additional threat from midfield.
Denmark’s chances in Euro 2024 hinge on their performance in the group stage. While they may not be favorites to finish first in Group C, they believe they have an outside chance if England experiences a slow start. A second-place finish would likely pit them against host nation Germany in the last-16, a tough task. However, with their team spirit and talent, Denmark cannot be underestimated.
In terms of odds, Denmark is currently priced at 40/1 to win the Euros and 4/5 to finish in the top two of Group C, according to William Hill. The question remains whether the glamorous wives and girlfriends of the Danish players will be able to attend the tournament in Germany, as they were banned from attending the Qatar World Cup in 2022. Players like Andreas Christensen’s girlfriend Katrine Friis and Joachim Andersen’s childhood sweetheart Cecilie Porsdal may potentially miss out on supporting their loved ones during the competition.
Overall, Denmark’s journey in Euro 2024 promises to be an exciting one. With a strong team, a resilient spirit, and talented players, they have the potential to make another deep run in the tournament. Fans will be eagerly watching as they aim to recreate the magic of their Euro 1992 victory.