Selke scores in win over Denmark

Krakow/Berlin – Germany strengthened their position at the top of their group at the U21 European Championship with a convincing 3-0 win over Denmark. "We played out from the back a lot better and had more control over the game. We implemented almost everything very well," said coach Stefan Kuntz after the game. Hertha's Mitchell Weiser, Niklas Stark and Davie Selke all started for the young Germans. 

Selke breaks the deadlock

It was Selke who put Germany into the lead in the second half. Germany had been the better side in the first half and created numerous chances to score before the interval, but they had to wait until the 53rd minute before Selke curled in a wonderful right-foot shot from outside the box which looped over the keeper and into the top corner. "I'm pleased that I was able to get the opener. It was important for the team and we played better after the goal," said Selke. Stark marshalled the defence and took the captain's armband when Arnold was substituted. Weiser operated from the right of midfield and had chances to score himself. Stark's central defensive partner Marc-Oliver Kempf of Freiburg netted the second in the 73rd minute and Selke set up Hoffenheim's Nadiem Amiri in the 79th minute to hand Germany a well deserved 3-0 victory.

Semi-final in touching distance

Kuntz's team are in the perfect position going into their final group game against Italy on Saturday (24/06/17). A draw would be enough to send the young Germans through to the semi-final. Germany sit top of Group C with six points, three points ahead of the Czech Republic who surprisingly defeated Italy 3-1 in their second match. Italy also have three points and Denmark have zero. Germany will head into their final group match hoping to show the same confidence that was on display against the Danes: "We're getting better. We played very well today. We've grown into the tournament and now we're looking forward to playing Italy," said Selke.