Denmark Launches U21 EURO Campaign with Dramatic Comeback Victory Over Ukraine

Denmark staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 3-2 victory over Ukraine in the opening match of Group D at the UEFA U21 European Championships, breaking a frustrating streak of four games without a win for Steffen Højer’s team (D2, L2).

Ukraine approached their first match of the tournament keen to build on their impressive fourth-place finish at the previous U21 European Championships. Despite a sluggish start, they had an opportunity to score after 20 minutes when Vladyslav Vanat intercepted the ball from a defender and charged towards goal, only to send his left-footed shot just over the crossbar.

Shortly after, Oleg Ochereretko helped Ukraine take the lead, aiming for the far bottom-left corner, but Nazar Voloshyn cleverly nudged the ball over the line from close range. Unfortunately for them, this was the last significant chance before half-time, as neither side could effectively challenge the opposing defence.

Denmark came out firing in the second half, determined to get back into the contest. Their efforts were rewarded just over an hour in when substitute Clement Bischoff equalised. Showing great composure in the box after receiving a cross from Anton Gaaei, he slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner.

Undeterred, Ukraine fought back and regained the lead with just over 10 minutes remaining, courtesy of a stunning first-time shot from Maksym Bragaru that curled into the goal from the edge of the penalty area. However, Denmark levelled the score again just three minutes later with a fortuitous strike from William Bøving, whose effort took a significant deflection en route to the net.

In a dramatic turn of events, Denmark took the lead for the first time with just two minutes to go when William Osula tapped in from close range. This victory elevates Denmark to the top of Group D as they await Finland’s clash with the Netherlands later today.