Euro 2025: Germany Beats Denmark 2-1 Amid VAR Controversy to Book Quarter-Final Spot
Lea Schuller nets decisive goal after VAR drama as Germany advances to the knockout stage
Germany confirmed their place in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Denmark in Basel on Tuesday. But the win was clouded by VAR controversy and a heated reaction from Denmark’s camp after a head injury incident in the lead-up to the winning goal.
With the result, Germany and Sweden both secured progression from Group C, while Denmark and Poland were officially eliminated. Sweden topped the group on goal difference after beating Poland 3-0 later in the day.
VAR Dominates First Half as Germany Denied Twice
The opening half saw Germany dominate possession and chances, but two VAR decisions went against them, frustrating Christian Wuck’s team and fans alike.
Klara Bühl had a goal disallowed after a long review ruled that Sjoeke Nüsken made a touch while in an offside position. Minutes later, Germany were awarded a penalty after Frederikke Thøgersen handled a cross, only for VAR to reverse the call, determining the foul occurred outside the box.
Denmark, meanwhile, took a surprise lead in the 26th minute through Amalie Vangsgaard, whose powerful drive beat Ann-Katrin Berger at her near post after a loose ball in the box.
Germany Fights Back After the Break
Frustrated but undeterred, Germany came out with more aggression in the second half and earned a legitimate penalty when Katrine Veje clipped Linda Dallmann inside the area. This time, VAR ruled in Germany’s favor and Sjoeke Nüsken converted from the spot in the 56th minute.
The comeback was completed in the 66th minute when Lea Schuller fired into the bottom corner from a pass by Jule Brand but not without further drama.
Head Injury Sparks Outrage From Denmark
Germany’s winning goal came just moments after Denmark midfielder Emma Snerle suffered a head injury. She was struck in the face by a clearance from teammate Emma Færge and collapsed to the ground in clear distress.
Referee Catarina Campos allowed play to continue, and Germany capitalized on the loose ball, leading to Schuller’s decisive goal.
Denmark coach Andrée Jeglertz, who will take over at Manchester City Women after the tournament, criticized the officiating.
“If a player has a serious head injury, the game must be stopped. The referee has to take responsibility. I don’t understand why the whistle wasn’t blown,” said Jeglertz post-match.
Snerle was eventually helped off and substituted by Josefine Hasbo.
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What’s Next?
Germany, now on six points, will face Sweden to decide Group C leadership, while Denmark bow out of the tournament. The quarter-finals await, with Germany looking to claim their ninth Euro title
- Next match: Germany vs. Sweden
Tuesday, July 8
17:00 BST
Basel
