Pure emotion alone does not explain Denmark's uplifting march to the semi-finals

Kasper Hjulmand’s side want to honour Christian Eriksen but that alone does not explain their march to the semi-finals

Danish players celebrate their 2-1 win at the end of the Euro 2020 soccer championship quarterfinal match between Czech Republic and Denmark, at the Olympic stadium in Baku, Saturday, July 3, 2021. (Naomi Baker/Pool Photo via AP)

Denmark are on a mission they never wished to undertake, inspired by a tragedy on the pitch they still struggle to comprehend, yet pure emotion alone does not explain their uplifting march to the semi-finals of the European Championship. Yes, they are playing for Christian Eriksen, but with a resolve, quality and touch of class that will serve as a warning to England or Ukraine when they meet at Wembley on Wednesday.

Disbelief was etched on the faces of Danish staff, players and supporters in Baku following their exhausting quarter-final defeat of the Czech Republic but this was a well-earned triumph that will strengthen their belief in a repeat of their last unlikely Euros victory in 1992. There is a cold, calculated and brilliant precision to Denmark’s remarkable run, not simply the motivation to fight for their fallen teammate. It is further tribute to the management of Kasper Hjulmand, who has enriched this competition not only with his human touch in the most trying circumstances but also with exemplary coaching.