Germany's first knockout victory in a major tournament after eight years has raised expectations among fans that the former football powerhouse is regaining its form, but coach Julian Nagelsmann assures that the players are not feeling additional pressure. Goals from Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala in the second half propelled Germany to the quarterfinals. The match was halted for 20 minutes due to weather conditions, and Danish defender Joachim Andersen saw his potential equalizer disallowed for offside before conceding a penalty that Havertz converted in the 53rd minute.
The German team started brilliantly, with Nagelsmann praising their initial 20 minutes as the best of the tournament, but the game turned challenging due to the weather and Danish resistance. Nagelsmann emphasized that the team is accustomed to pressure and views it as a privilege to play under such conditions. Germany's victory was comfortable, though they could have scored more, hindered by good saves from Kasper Schmeichel and missed opportunities.
Denmark had a crucial moment in the second half with Andersen's disallowed goal and subsequent penalty conceded. Nagelsmann acknowledged the close offside call and understood Denmark's frustration with the penalty decision. Germany could have extended their lead further, but Florian Wirtz had a late goal disallowed for offside, and Schmeichel made a crucial save.
Germany's defender Antonio Rudiger expressed satisfaction with the team's dominance, though acknowledging missed chances. Denmark's coach, Kasper Hjulmand, criticized the VAR decisions that went against his team, arguing that the technology should not hinge on marginal calls. He was particularly upset about the offside decision and the handball rule affecting Andersen's play.
