England missed an opportunity to secure their place in the Euro 2024 knockout stages as Group C winners, managing only a draw against Denmark in a lackluster performance in Frankfurt.
Gareth Southgate’s team, needing a win to top Group C after the earlier draw between Slovenia and Serbia, were fortunate to come away with a point from what can only be described as a disorganized display.
Harry Kane provided a promising start, scoring in the 18th minute, marking his fourth successive major tournament with a goal. Yet, England’s familiar pattern of retreating into their shell allowed Denmark to dominate. The Danish side equalized with a powerful 25-yard strike from Morten Hjulmand in the 34th minute.
Despite Phil Foden hitting the post after the break, England remained at the top of their group. However, significant improvements are needed ahead of their next match against Slovenia.
Manager Southgate’s decision to make four substitutions with over 20 minutes left underscored England’s struggles. The dissatisfaction was palpable among the fans, who jeered well before the final whistle and gave a hostile send-off at the end.
England’s midfield, particularly the partnership of Declan Rice and Trent Alexander-Arnold, was outplayed by Denmark, with Christian Eriksen orchestrating the play. This experiment, especially with Alexander-Arnold in midfield, appears unlikely to be repeated after his substitution in the 53rd minute.
Jude Bellingham, who had been pivotal against Serbia, failed to replicate his influence, appearing fatigued. England’s players also complained about the state of the pitch, but such excuses do little to justify their poor performance.
The match highlighted England’s tendency to become passive after scoring, a habit Denmark exploited fully. The decision to substitute Kane and Foden, the latter being England’s most threatening player, was surprising and reflected the team’s lack of direction.
England’s fans would agree that the performance in Frankfurt fell short of the standard required to make a serious impact at Euro 2024. The next match against Slovenia will be critical for Southgate and his team to regain their form and confidence.
The experiment of using Alexander-Arnold in midfield appears to have ended, with Conor Gallagher emerging as a likely replacement. Additionally, young talents like Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton are potential options to strengthen the midfield.