Kobbie Mainoo was not allowed to play; Christian Eriksen faces difficulties and Rasmus Hojlund plays dull – Denmark enters Euro 2024 round of 16

Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund both started for Denmark in their 0-0 draw with Serbia on Tuesday night.

Denmark needed just one point in their last Euro 2024 Group C match to finish second and advance to the round of 16.

Eriksen, a combative midfielder, was Denmark’s best player on the night, especially as their primary corner kick taker. In fact, one of his corner kicks found its intended target, who scored, only to have the goal overturned when it was discovered that Eriksen’s initial cross slipped slightly out of play on its approach into the area.

Eriksen had one blocked shot, but he passed with 78% accuracy, connecting on 39 of 50 attempts. He made two vital passes and completed two out of three long balls.

The midfielder won two of his three ground duels, making one tackle and one clearance.

Hojlund had a slightly less exciting night, seeing limited action as his team struggled to put together a convincing offence.

He fired one shot, albeit a powerful one, forcing the Serbian custodian to make a stop in the lower left corner.

With only 21 touches on the night, Hojlund had an amazing 91% pass accuracy, missing only one of his eleven attempts. He also made two vital passes throughout the onslaught.

His physicality was lacking, as he lost both of his aerial duels and won only one of his six ground duels. He also failed to execute his only attempted dribble of the night.

While Eriksen and Hojlund delivered subdued performances, the Manchester United duo remained crucial components of the Danish squad, helping their team advance to the knockout rounds.

Given that Eriksen scored his team’s single goal in a 1-1 tie against Slovenia, he has had far better success at Euro 2024 than his Manchester United teammate Hojlund, who has yet to score.

Nonetheless, the pair will almost probably be key to Denmark’s tournament success if they can find their groove in the knockout stages.