Hosts Germany defeat Denmark to progress to EURO 2024 quarterfinals

Germany, the hosts of Euro 2024, advanced to the quarter-finals of a major tournament for the first time since 2016.

They secured their spot in the last eight with a 2-0 victory over Denmark in Dortmund, despite a pause in play due to a lightning storm.

The Signal Iduna Park, a renowned venue in European football, was buzzing within the first four minutes of the match.

Nico Schlotterbeck scored a powerful header from a Toni Kroos delivery, but the goal was disallowed by the officials for a foul in the build-up.

Denmark's goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel was kept busy during the one-sided opening 20 minutes, making saves from Joshua Kimmich, Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz, and Robert Andrich as Germany dominated from set-pieces.

As the game progressed, Denmark managed to gain momentum and posed a threat on the counterattack. Christian Eriksen's attempt was blocked by Antonio Rudiger, while Joakim Maehle narrowly missed the target with a shot.

The first half was filled with excitement until a lightning storm forced a temporary halt with 10 minutes left, causing hailstones and heavy rain.

After the break, both teams had opportunities to score, with Havertz missing a clear chance with a header from close range that was saved by Schmeichel.

At the opposite end, Rasmus Hojlund was denied by an advancing Manuel Neuer, setting the stage for an evenly balanced match going into the second half.

Denmark's hopes soared within the first three minutes after the break when Joachim Andersen scored from close range, only for his effort to be disallowed following a VAR check for an extremely marginal offside.

In a dramatic turn of events, Andersen once again found himself on the wrong side of a VAR decision, giving away a penalty for handball from David Raum's cross. The rollercoaster continued as Havertz converted from the spot, controversially putting Germany ahead with his second goal of the tournament.

After breaking the deadlock, the Arsenal striker displayed a moment of brilliance to break through on goal, but his chipped effort missed the target, sailing wide of Schmeichel's goal.

Germany eventually sealed the deal with a second goal, as a superb long pass from Schlotterbeck found Jamal Musiala on the left flank, and the talented 21-year-old calmly slotted the ball into the far corner.

Denmark's performance dwindled from that point onwards, resulting in Hjulmand's team extending their winless streak in major tournaments to eight matches.

Meanwhile, Germany remains unbeaten in their last eight games and will face the winner of Spain vs Georgia in the quarterfinals.