Denmark vs Serbia – June 25, 2024 | Denmark secured their place with a hard-fought goalless draw against Serbia, marking a significant milestone in their tournament campaign. This pivotal match not only determined Denmark’s progression but also spelled the end of Serbia’s journey in the competition. Let’s delve into the key moments, analysis, and implications of this closely contested encounter.
Match Summary | Denmark vs Serbia
Key Moments
- 22′: Rajković tips Eriksen effort around post.
- 32′: Low Højlund drive held by Serbia keeper.
- 65′: Vestergaard heads straight at Rajković.
- 81′: Mitrović sidefoots wide.
Game Statistics
Denmark:
- Yellow Cards: 2
- Corner Kicks: 8
- Total Shots: 10
- Shots On Target: 4
- Ball Possession Percentage: 50%
- Fouls: 13
- Goals Conceded: 0
- Goals Scored: 0
Serbia:
- Yellow Cards: 2
- Corner Kicks: 2
- Total Shots: 3
- Shots On Target: 1
- Ball Possession Percentage: 50%
- Fouls: 5
- Goals Conceded: 0
- Goals Scored: 0
Match in Brief: No Way Through for Denmark
In a tightly contested match, clear-cut chances were rare in the opening stages. Denmark gradually asserted control and came closest to scoring early on when Alexander Bah headed wide from Joakim Mæhle’s cross. Christian Eriksen tested Rajković with a low shot, brilliantly tipped around the post, while Rasmus Højlund was denied shortly after.
Despite dominating possession, Denmark struggled to break down Serbia’s resilient defense. The first half ended with both teams level, despite Denmark’s efforts, including a Jonas Wind attempt that sailed over the bar.
Serbia introduced Dušan Tadić and Luka Jović at halftime to bolster their attack, but it was Denmark who continued to create more opportunities. Andreas Skov Olsen, who came on at halftime, saw his effort deflected wide, while a long-range strike from Hjulmand missed the target.
Late in the game, Aleksandar Mitrović had Serbia’s best chance, sidefooting wide from a tight angle. However, it wasn’t enough for Serbia to secure the win needed to advance.
Vivo Player of the Match: Christian Eriksen (Denmark)
Christian Eriksen stood out in a tightly contested match, showcasing his ability to find space and create chances between the lines. He was a constant threat in the final third with his shooting and key passes.
Key Stats | Denmark vs Serbia
- Denmark advances from the group stage in consecutive EURO tournaments for the first time.
- Serbia remains winless in their last eight major tournament matches (D3 L5) since defeating Costa Rica 1-0 at the 2018 World Cup.
- After a strong start in early 2023, Serbia has struggled with only four wins in their last 14 games (D4 L6).
- Denmark had won all three previous meetings with Serbia since 2006, scoring eight goals and conceding only one.
Line-ups | Denmark vs Serbia
Denmark: Schmeichel; Andersen, Christensen, Vestergaard; Mæhle, Hjulmand (Delaney 77), Eriksen (Poulsen 88), Højbjerg, Bah (V Kristiansen 77); Højlund (Dolberg 59), Wind (Skov Olsen 46)
Serbia: Rajković; Veljković, Milenković, Pavlović; Ilić (Vlahović 67), Gudelj (Jović 46); Mijailović (Mladenović 73), Samardžić (Tadić 46), Lukić (S Milinković-Savić 87), Živković; Mitrović
Detailed Analysis | Denmark vs Serbia
The Denmark vs Serbia match at UEFA EURO 2024 concluded with Denmark progressing to the last 16 after a goalless draw against Serbia, who were unable to secure the victory needed to advance in the tournament.
First Half: Denmark’s Dominance
The match started cautiously, with both teams looking to establish control early on. Denmark, known for their organized approach, gradually took charge of proceedings. Alexander Bah, replacing Victor Kristiansen in the starting lineup, came close to scoring from Joakim Mæhle’s cross, heading wide.
Christian Eriksen, Denmark’s key playmaker, posed a constant threat to Serbia’s defense. His low shot midway through the first half forced an outstanding save from Predrag Rajković, who also denied Rasmus Højlund shortly after with another fine stop.
Despite Denmark’s dominance in possession and efforts on goal, including Jonas Wind’s ambitious strike, they were unable to breach Serbia’s disciplined defensive setup. The first half ended with Denmark unable to convert their superiority into a lead.
Second Half: Serbia’s Defensive Resilience
At halftime, Serbia’s manager Dragan Stojković made strategic changes, introducing Dušan Tadić and Luka Jović to inject more attacking impetus. However, it was Denmark who continued to dictate play, creating several opportunities.
Andreas Skov Olsen, a halftime substitute, had a promising effort deflected wide by Nikola Milenković. Denmark’s coach Kasper Hjulmand opted for long-range attempts, with one from Højbjerg missing the target.
In the closing stages, Serbia pushed forward in search of a crucial goal. Aleksandar Mitrović came close with a sidefooted effort from a difficult angle, but his shot went wide, symbolizing Serbia’s frustration in front of goal throughout the match.
Post-Match Analysis and Reactions | Denmark vs Serbia
The goalless draw meant Denmark secured their progression to the knockout stage, a significant achievement for the team as they continue their EURO 2024 campaign. Christian Eriksen’s performance was pivotal, earning him the Vivo Player of the Match award for his creativity and influence on the pitch.
In contrast, Serbia’s disappointment was palpable as they were eliminated from the tournament after finishing fourth in Group C. Despite showing resilience defensively, Serbia struggled to convert chances into goals, extending their winless streak in major tournaments.
Looking Ahead: Implications for Denmark and Serbia
For Denmark, the focus now shifts to preparing for the knockout stage, where they will face tougher challenges. Kasper Hjulmand will analyze areas for improvement, particularly in converting opportunities into goals, to enhance their chances of progressing further.
Meanwhile, Serbia faces a period of reflection and rebuilding after another disappointing tournament. Dragan Stojković will assess the team’s performance and strategize for future competitions, aiming to address their scoring drought and improve overall results.
Conclusion | Denmark vs Serbia
The Denmark vs Serbia encounter at UEFA EURO 2024 was a testament to the competitive nature of international football. Denmark’s advancement to the last 16 underscores their resilience and tactical prowess, while Serbia’s exit highlights the challenges they faced in converting opportunities into victories.
As EURO 2024 progresses, Denmark will seek to build on their group stage success, aiming for a deep run in the tournament. Serbia, on the other hand, will regroup and aim to bounce back stronger in future competitions, learning from their experiences in this challenging campaign.
