Watch Slovenia vs Denmark full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 16:00 (GMT) on 16th June 2024
The referee for this match is S. Schärer
Game played at Stuttgart Arena
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group C, Season 2024
Slovenia Fights Back to Draw with Denmark in Euro 2024 Group C Opener
In a thrilling Euro 2024 Group C opener at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, Slovenia came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Denmark. Despite the spirited comeback, Slovenia remains without a win in head-to-head encounters with Denmark (D2, L3).
Early Dominance by Denmark
Denmark, who shared a qualifying group with Slovenia, entered the match with a psychological edge. This advantage was evident in the opening 15 minutes, dominated by Danish pressure around Jan Oblak’s goal. The breakthrough came swiftly as a quick throw-in led to Jonas Wind’s deft backheel flick, allowing Christian Eriksen to chest the ball down and fire low past Oblak, giving Denmark a well-deserved lead.
Eriksen almost turned provider for a second goal shortly after, with his driven cross narrowly missing the target after deflecting off two Slovenian defenders. Slovenia’s counter-attacks in the first half were limited and did little to trouble Denmark’s solid backline.
Slovenian Resilience in the Second Half
The second half began with Denmark continuing their control over possession and tempo. However, Slovenia started to create problems for the Danish defense with long throws into the box. Denmark nearly doubled their lead when Victor Kristiansen’s low cross found Rasmus Hojlund, but Oblak’s quick reflexes denied the young striker from close range.
Moments later, Slovenia had a golden opportunity to equalize. Adam Gnezda Čerin’s header from the middle of the box went just wide of Kasper Schmeichel’s goal. The missed chance seemed to invigorate Slovenia, who continued to press forward.
Slovenia’s Equalizer
The persistent efforts of the Balkan side paid off when Erik Janža struck a first-time effort from outside the box. The shot took a crucial deflection off Morten Hjulmand, leaving Schmeichel helpless as the ball flew into the net, bringing Slovenia level.
Closing Stages
Buoyed by their equalizer, Slovenia pushed for a winner in the closing stages. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to find a second goal and had to settle for a draw. Denmark, on the other hand, will be frustrated with the result, knowing they had ample opportunities to secure a victory before Slovenia’s equalizer.
Conclusion
The 1-1 draw leaves both teams with mixed feelings. Slovenia will be pleased with their comeback and the point earned but continue their search for a first win against Denmark. Meanwhile, Denmark will rue the missed chances that cost them two valuable points in their Euro 2024 opener.
As Group C progresses, both teams will look to build on this result. Slovenia’s resilience and Denmark’s early dominance set the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.