Slovenia and Denmark Prepare for Euro 2024 Opener in Group C
ICARO Media Group
In an exciting Euro 2024 clash, Slovenia and Denmark are set to face off in their opening match of Group C on Sunday afternoon. Both teams are eager to kick-start their campaigns with a victory in what promises to be a closely contested encounter.
Slovenia, who qualified for their first European Championship since 2000, have a familiar opponent in Denmark. The two nations previously met during the qualification stage, with Denmark emerging victorious in both matches, recording a 1-1 draw and a 2-1 win. However, Slovenia will be looking to turn the tables and secure a win on the big stage.
Denmark, who won the European Championship in 1992, are determined to surpass their semi-final finish from the delayed Euro 2020. Led by manager Kasper Hjulmand, the Danish side could have made it to the final if not for an England penalty. With tough matches against England and Serbia on the horizon, a victory against Slovenia would be vital for Denmark's passage to the knockout stages.
The match between Slovenia and Denmark is scheduled to kick off at 17:00 BST / 12:00 ET / 09:00 PT. Their last meeting in November 2023 ended with Denmark prevailing 2-1, and both teams have had mixed results in their recent fixtures. Denmark suffered a 2-0 defeat against Northern Ireland, while Slovenia managed a 2-2 draw against Malta.
Slovenia will heavily rely on their talented striker, Benjamin Sesko, who recently signed a new deal with RB Leipzig amid interest from Premier League clubs. The 57th-ranked team will also look to their captain, Jan Oblak, the Atletico Madrid goalkeeper, to provide strong performances between the sticks.
Denmark, on the other hand, will call upon their experienced core group of players. Kasper Schmeichel will guard the goal, while Joachim Andersen, Simon Kjaer, and Jannik Vestergaard will marshal the defense. The midfield will feature the inspirational Christian Eriksen, who made a remarkable comeback after suffering a cardiac arrest during Euro 2020.
Despite their previous encounters ending in closely contested matches, Denmark's experience in major tournaments may tip the scales in their favor. Slovenia has never defeated Denmark, but they will undoubtedly be eager to rewrite history.
As the teams prepare to meet in Stuttgart, expectations for an intense battle are high. The stage is set for an exciting match between Slovenia and Denmark, with both teams aiming to secure a crucial victory in their Euro 2024 campaign.
Prediction: Slovenia 1-2 Denmark.