England and Denmark secured their tickets to the Euro 2024 round of 16, advancing as the leading teams in Group C, despite playing to goalless draws against Slovenia and Serbia, respectively.
Bukayo Saka of England celebrates a goal during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group C match versus Slovenia in Cologne, Germany, on June 25, 2024. However, the goal was later overturned by a VAR review. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei)
England finished as the group’s frontrunner, despite a stalemate with a resolute Slovenia. Denmark clinched second place after a draw with already-eliminated Serbia in Tuesday’s group stage finale.
Slovenia entered the fray full of intent, knowing a draw would suffice for them to progress, while England’s Three Lions were already through to the next round.
Benjamin Sesko nearly gave Slovenia an early lead, forcing England’s keeper Jordan Pickford into a save with his close-range header just five minutes in.
England came alive in the middle of the first half. Bukayo Saka seemed to have broken the deadlock, but his goal was chalked off for offside.
Harry Kane threatened before halftime, heading narrowly wide after a dangerous cross from Kieran Trippier.
Post-intermission, opportunities were scant, with England dominating possession but failing to penetrate Slovenia’s sturdy defence.
Slovenia’s rearguard held England at bay, securing the vital point to keep their Euro ambitions afloat.
“We aimed to top the group to stay in charge of our fate. It was a tough match, but we played better than last time. We had the ball but couldn’t finish in the final third,” Kane remarked.
England’s coach, Gareth Southgate, echoed: “We were superior and dominated. We had chances to win, but missed the decisive pass.”
Denmark, in the other Group C match, also couldn’t find the net against Serbia, but the draw was sufficient for the Danes to advance as runners-up.
With these outcomes, England leads the group with five points, trailed by Denmark, Slovenia (both 3 points), and Serbia (2 points).
The top two teams from each of the six groups, plus the four best third-placed teams, will progress to the round-of-16 knockout stage.
