Germany edge closer to quarter-final after narrow victory | OneFootball

Both coaches decided against making changes from their opening matchday XIs. However, Germany had to replace captain Giulia Gwinn after she suffered a tournament-ending knee injury. Carlotta Wamser comes in her place on the right flank.

Just like Germany’s opening fixture, there was a frantic nature to the first 10 minutes at the  St. Jakob-Park stadium. Christian Wück’s side frequently reached the opposing box, but Denmark also started the game with an attacking intent.

Germany found the back of the net in the game’s first real chance. Jule Brand, who was directly involved in the two goals against Poland, assisted Klara Bühl’s well-strike goal in the 17th minute. However, the goal was chalked off by VAR because of Sjoeke Nüsken's intervention from an offside position.

That proved decisive as Denmark also beat Ann-Katrin Berger in their first shot on target. The 34-year-old goalkeeper was unable to save the powerful hit by Juventus’ forward Amalie Vangsgaard on the near post.

Germany thought they were presented with a big chance for an equalizer when referee Catarina Campos pointed to the spot after Frederikke Thøgersen’s handball, but VAR came to Denmark’s rescue once again as it was outside the box.

Maja Bay Østergaard had a busier spell after that as Germany upped the pressure to change the scoreline before the half-time break. Denmark also had a great chance to double their advantage, but Berger was up to the task this time around.

Wück decided to make no half-time changes, but Germany finally benefited from a VAR check in the 55th minute. Sjoeke Nüsken calmly converted the penalty-kick after a foul on Linda Dallmann.

Ten minutes later, Germany took the lead with Brand’s second assist for Lea Schüller in the tournament. It was an unfortunate incident for Denmark as Emma Snerle was knocked out by an attempted clearance prior to the goal.

Schüller, who also missed a couple of sitters against Poland, nearly scored another a minute later. As things stand, Germany are missing a certain Alexandra Popp, who retired from international football after last year’s Olympics. The Wolfsburg striker was watching the game from the stands.

Nonetheless, Germany’s sixth all-time top-scorer proved the match-winner in a cagey affair. Denmark tried to ask questions in search of an equalizer, but Germany held on to keep their 100% record.

Germany will close their group stage action against Sweden on Saturday. Before that, the two teams could secure quarter-final spots if the inaugural champions beat debutants Poland later tonight.

Norway and Spain have already progressed to the knockout stages from the first two groups. There is a possibility for an early head-to-head fixture between the two giants if Italy finish ahead of the world champions in Group B.

In Group D, holders England would face early elimination if they lose to the Netherlands tomorrow. France could join the last 8 with a win against Wales, who are taking part in their first-ever major tournament.