• Friday, 27 December 2024
UEFA EURO 2024: Denmark draws Slovenia 1-1

UEFA EURO 2024: Denmark draws Slovenia 1-1

Christian Eriksen marked his return to the European Championship with a special goal - but Slovenia responded to grab a draw with Denmark in Stuttgart.

The midfielder, now playing for Manchester United, collapsed on the pitch against Finland in Denmark's opening match of Euro 2021 and was later fitted with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD).

Eriksen's return to the Euros began perfectly as he netted his side's opening goal of this tournament 17 minutes in, firing into the bottom left corner after a smart flick-on from Jonas Wind.

He was a standout performer as Denmark controlled possession in the first half and created more chances to extend their lead.

However, Slovenia, who also faced Denmark in qualifying, were backed by vociferous fans in Stuttgart and levelled when Erik Janza's powerful effort flew past goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel with 13 minutes left.

Slovenia's pressure had been growing in the second half and star man Benjamin Sesko sent a warning sign minutes earlier when he smashed an effort against the post.

Matjaz Kek's side, who had struggled to contain Eriksen in the first half, could even have snatched a late victory when Andraz Sporar drilled a shot into the side-netting and also volleyed wide.

Chances had already come and gone for Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund, as well as for Eriksen, while Adam Cerin headed wide at the other end.

This result only intensifies a pulsating Group C - which also includes England and Serbia - but will come as a blow to Denmark, who are hoping to go one better than their semi-final achievement in 2021.

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