Football News: England Faces Denmark Test in Euro 2024 Opener
As England prepares to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign, the Three Lions will be hoping for a similar outcome but an improved performance against Denmark. The opening match against Serbia saw Jude Bellingham’s diving header secure a narrow victory for Gareth Southgate’s side, but there were question marks over the overall display.
Denmark Pose a Distinct Threat
Denmark pose a distinct threat to England, with their technical approach contrasting Serbia’s physicality. The Danes like to maintain possession, as evidenced by their 68% share against Slovenia, and boast the quality to progress the ball quickly through the lines.
While England will be the favorites, talkSPORT has identified three key battles that could swing the balance of the match. Our very own Adrian Durham has analyzed these crucial matchups:
Bukayo Saka vs. Jannik Vestergaard
The England winger was kept quiet for large periods against Serbia, but the Denmark game presents the perfect opportunity for him to make his mark. Saka’s pace and dribbling ability could easily expose the lack of speed in Vestergaard’s game, and Durham believes “Saka can torture Vestergaard, creating and scoring goals.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold vs. Christian Eriksen
The England midfielder’s new role alongside Declan Rice was a talking point against Serbia, and he’ll face a stern test in containing the influence of Danish playmaker Eriksen. Durham suggests that Alexander-Arnold may not be the ideal player to stop Eriksen’s passing game, and England may need a different midfielder to counter the Danish threat.
Jude Bellingham vs. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg
The Real Madrid midfielder was England’s standout performer in the opening match, and containing his influence will be central to Denmark’s gameplan. Hojbjerg will need to remain disciplined and tight to Bellingham, but Durham believes the England youngster is “quicker, stronger, smarter” and could once again be the difference-maker.
talkSPORT will provide live commentary of every game at Euro 2024, so be sure to tune in via the website or mobile app for all the action and analysis.
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