England Holds Denmark to 1-1 Draw Amid Heavy Criticism

England’s Euro 2024 campaign continues to face scrutiny following a 1-1 draw with Denmark in Frankfurt on June 20, 2024. Despite leading Group C by two points, the Three Lions were booed by their own fans at the final whistle. Manager Gareth Southgate took responsibility for the team’s lackluster performance.

Harry Kane’s early goal was neutralized by a stunning strike from Danish player Morten Hjulmand. Southgate admitted, “We didn’t press the ball with our intensity and we kept conceding possession too cheaply,” acknowledging the disappointment and anxiety affecting the squad’s gameplay.

In response to mounting pressure, Southgate made strategic changes throughout the match, substituting key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, and the attacking trio of Kane, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka. However, the changes failed to secure a victory.

Gary Lineker criticized Kane’s lack of pressing, while other pundits like Micah Richards and Rio Ferdinand also highlighted issues with England’s tactics and execution. Former striker Alan Shearer pinpointed the need for a tactical shift to reignite the team’s spark, drawing parallels to England’s Euro ’96 resurgence.

Despite the criticism, Southgate remained resolute, stressing the importance of calm analysis and improvement within the squad. England will face Slovenia in their final Group C match, needing a better performance to meet high expectations.