After 87 minutes it looked like the German U21s would have to start their journey home. But a late equalizer, a dramatic extension and a gripping penalty shoot-out made for a turn.
The German U21 national team has reached the semi-finals of the EM. In a thrilling game against Denmark, the team from coach won Stefan Kuntz 6: 5 on penalties. After 120 minutes it was 2-2. The game was without goals for a long time before the ball floundered in the net several times late in the game.
That’s how the game went
The DFB juniors around Florian Wirtz from Leverkusen made a furious start, putting Denmark under pressure early on and pushing them into their own half. Time and again it was left-back David Raum von Greuther Fürth who initiated actions and caused unrest in the Danish penalty area with his dangerous crosses. Salzburg’s Mergim Berisha had the greatest chance, after being presented by Lukas Nmecha, he just missed Denmark’s goalkeeper Christensen from eleven meters.
Florian Wirtz: The DFB talent was very active on the offensive. (Source: Marton Monus / dpa)
As a result, the German opponent gained security and set the tone for himself. Especially after the break, the Scandinavians slowly got stronger and created good chances. Bruun Larsen (50th) tested Dahmen with a dangerous shot. Almost 20 minutes later, substitute Wahid Faghir made it better. The 17-year-old striker hit the lead shortly after being substituted on (69th).
As a result, Germany became more offensive, but remained unlucky for a long time. Salvation came only in the 88th minute. After a corner kick from the right, central defender Lars Lukas Mai extended the short post to the long aluminum to Lukas Nmecha, who unpacked an unbelievable lob when he fell, which hit goalkeeper Christensen in the top right.
Cheers over the 1-1: The equalizer by Lukas Nmecha ensured the extension. (Source: Matthias Koch / imago images)
It went into extra time, which started well for the DFB Juniors. A cross from David Raum landed on the far post for Jonathan Burkardt, who shot the ball into the net – 2-1 for Germany. But in the second half of extra time, the Danes hit back. Mai had fouled opponent Holse in the penalty area, Victor Nelsson easily converted the penalty.
In the 118th minute, Germany almost took the lead again. Again it was Jonathan Burkardt who appeared in front of the Danish gate. But the Mainz striker just failed on the post. It went to penalties, which Germany won. The match winner was goalkeeper Finn Dahmen, who was able to parry two attempts by the Danes.
In the semi-finals, the DFB selection will now meet the Netherlands.
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