Denmark will be underdogs in today’s semi final versus England but are very determined to overcome the odds. Coach Kasper Hjulmand stated in the pre-game presser, as transcribed by Tuttomercatoweb: “We must take command of the game regardless of who we are facing. We must be proactive because I do not like a defeatist mentality. We must create chances and attack, we can beat anybody.”
“The pressure is on the Three Lions and we must exploit it. I am sure our fans will be loud, even though they will be severely outnumbered. It will not be easy for England to defeat us. Playing in the semi final at Wembley Stadium is a dream come true for me and the players. However, we must not think about that once we get on the pitch.”
Kasper Schmeichel sneered: “Is football coming home? I do not know. It seems to me that they have won only the ‘66 World Cup. I have not thought about what it would mean to stop England, I have focused on what this achievement would represent for Denmark. We would give immense joy to 5M people, it would be incredible. They are the favorites because they have several stars and are at home. The burden of expectations is on them.”
Denmark midfielder Christian Norgaard had some fighting words: “Wembley Stadium is unique and fantastic, but it is not intimidating. We will live through a great experience, but we are not here just for that reason. We want to win. The hostile environment could be a motivating factor. 60k supporters will cheer against us and we will do anything to silence them.”