The Frankfurt Arena is ready to host a thrilling encounter between Denmark and England in their second match of UEFA Euro 2024 in Group C.
Denmark, led by Christian Eriksen's inspiring return, drew 1-1 with Slovenia in their opener, while England edged out Serbia 1-0 courtesy of Jude Bellingham's early header.
The Danes will be seeking redemption after their heartbreaking semi-final defeat to England at Euro 2020, which ended 2-1 in extra time. Coach Kasper Hjulmand is optimistic about his team's chances, believing they can pull off an upset against the favored English side.
Fortunes can change in the blink of an eye,
he said, urging his team to seize the moment.
England, leading Group C, will aim to secure a spot in the next round with a win.
However, their recent form has been inconsistent, with only two wins in their last six matches. Coach Gareth Southgate acknowledges Denmark's different playing style and promises to adjust his team's strategy accordingly.
The two teams have contrasting forms heading into this match. Denmark has won three, drawn two, and lost one in their last six games, while England has managed only two wins, two draws, and two losses. Despite this, England's coach remains confident in his team's ability to use the ball effectively and adapt to Denmark's unique challenges.
The possible line-ups suggest a strong starting eleven for both teams, with Denmark's Eriksen and Højbjerg forming a formidable midfield duo, while England's attacking quartet of Saka, Bellingham, Foden, and Kane looks potent.
Possible line-ups
Denmark: Schmeichel, Andersen, Christensen, Vestergaard, Kristiansen, Nørgaard, Eriksen, Højbjerg, Mæhle, Højlund, Poulsen
England: Pickford, Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier, Alexander-Arnold, Rice, Saka, Bellingham, Foden, Kane
The coaches said the following;
Kasper Hjulmand, Denmark coach:
We have it in our power to have a fantastic game against England, where nobody expects us to win. Fortunes can change [in the blink of an eye], and who says it won't? I believe it can be done. And then suddenly it's a completely different situation.
Gareth Southgate, England coach:
What do we expect from Denmark? A slightly different style of game, so they'll pose us different questions. We have to use the ball as we did in the first half [against Serbia], really, and we'll need to look back at their game and see whether there are any adjustments to what we need to do.
The Frankfurt Arena is expected to be electric, with fans from both nations eager to witness a thrilling encounter. The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams seeking to outmaneuver each other.