England reigned supreme over Denmark in Wednesday’s 2020 European Championship semi-final at Wembley Stadium. A Mikkel Damsgaard free-kick in the first half was cancelled out almost immediately by a Simon Kjaer own goal.
England had the better chances throughout the game but could not make any telling difference, and hence the match finished 1-1 in regulation time and thirty additional minutes were required to find the second finalist of EURO 2020.
Extra-time beckoned and Gareth Southgate sent on fresh legs to torment the Danish defenders. The England head coach’s strategy worked as the Three Lions proved to be too quick for Denmark to handle, and their constant pressure finally made Denmark yield when Raheem Sterling was adjudged to have been brought down inside the box.
Sterling cut in from the right flank and seemingly felt contact from Joakim Mæhle, and the referee pointed to the spot.
The Denmark defenders swarmed around the referee to debate the decision, as VAR was imminent to intervene. But unfortunately for Denmark, the decision stood – and it all came down to one kick of the ball from the spot for Harry Kane.
The England captain stepped up to find the back of the net to ensure England had one foot in Sunday’s final, while his opposite number – Denmark ‘keeper Kasper Schmeichel was the only one who stood between England and glory.
Wembley was swimming with nerves as the entire nation’s eyes were on the penalty spot, and their loyal fans were prepared to do anything to ensure England went 2-1 up.
One particular fan even went to the extent of using a Laser Pen to distract Schmeichel and blind him, as footage from the game showed a green laser beam on the Leicester City goalkeeper’s face as he awaited the spot-kick.
The desperate fan’s trick did not work as Schmeichel saved Kane’s initial effort, but the Spurs forward tapped it home from the rebound.
England booked their date at Wembley on Sunday, where they will face Roberto Mancini’s Italy side for the European Championship title.
Is this real? A laser pointer in Schmeichel's face when he was about to save the penalty last night? Only just saw this and can't vouch for source. #ENG #englandvdenmark pic.twitter.com/O9hO5rGYr8
— Jeremy Vine (@theJeremyVine) July 8, 2021
