Schmeichel's Wembley heroics were not enough this time, but Denmark must still be celebrated
Wembley Stadium on Wednesday (July 7) was one step too far for Denmark. From that awful moment when Christian Eriksen collapsed, through two group defeats, a battering of Russia and Wales and Joakim Maehle’s magic against the Czech Republic, Kasper Hjulmand’s men have captivated fans at Euro 2020 more than any other side.
Against England, the brutal truth of football took over. Denmark were good, but just not good enough. The standout individual performances, the critical moments, the game management – they belonged to the Three Lions.
Fans should commiserate, of course, but they should celebrate, too, for what their team have produced in these past few weeks.
England had been the most resolute of all sides at these finals. Five games, five clean sheets – their best return at a major tournament. They had not let in a goal since March. Midway through the first half against Denmark, Jordan Pickford broke Gordon Banks’ record of 720 minutes without conceding.
It was likely to take something special to break that run. Barely 60 seconds later, it duly arrived.
Mikkel Damsgaard, 21 years old, unleashed a sensational, dipping free-kick from more than 30 yards out that flew past Pickford’s despairing grasp. It was the first direct free-kick scored at these finals and the eighth direct goal involvement the Sampdoria man – who is sure to attract interest from across the continent – had managed in seven starts for his country.
