Over the years the Euros has produced some surprising underdogs as champions, with Greece most recently lifting the trophy in 2004. Denmark too had its fairy tale story in 1992 where they beat the favorites Germany in the final and went on to lift the trophy. Originally Denmark wasn’t even in the tournament and was summoned just 10 days before the tournament began on behalf of Yugoslavia.
With only 8 teams taking part in the tournament in Euro 1992, Denmark finished ahead of France and England in the group stages while knocking out the Netherlands to book their passage into the finals against the mighty Germans.
The final was the ultimate David vs Goliath battle but the Danes struck first blood early in the 18th minute with a sensational volley by Jensen with which the German keeper had no chance, Germans continued to up the ante but came across an inspired Peter Schmeichel in goal, who made save after save of shots from Klinsmann, Effenberg to name a few to deny the Germans.
The pressure from the Germans was relentless but the Danes stood firm with their keeper and defense making a string of tackles and saves to keep the Germans at bay. The fairytale was complete when Vilfort controlled a lofted ball in the 78th minute and turned inside to slot the ball into the corner off the upright and all but confirming their championship.
Soon, the final whistle blew and Danes celebrated their unlikely triumph and remains to this day one of the classic matches and Euros of all time.
Final Scores
Demark vs Germany: 2-0
Goal Scorers: Jensen, Vilfort