Manchester United supporters saw a somewhat familiar game play out as Rasmus Hojlund struggled to make an impact in Denmark’s Euro 2024 opener.
Rasmus Hojlund finished the 2023/24 season as Manchester United top scorer with 16 goals.
But along the way, there were real stretches of struggle for the striker, who found himself starved of service, or just not offering enough himself.
It was a ‘feast or famine’ situation, and Denmark have experienced the same. Hojlund was prolific for them during stages of Euro 2024 qualifying, but he has not found the net at all for them this year.
Hojlund struggles for Denmark as Eriksen steals the show
Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen was Denmark’s star man in their Euro 2024 opener against Slovenia.
Eriksen created seven chances, although Hojlund was not among the recipients of his passes, attempting only one shot.
Hojlund’s struggles were a talking point in the Danish media, with his plentiful effort the topic of praise, even if it did not lead to goals.
Tipsbladet wrote: “Yes, he works like an ox, creates space for the others, but the optimal way to set him up has not yet been found.
“Yes, a couple of nice crosses from the edges were possible – and he should perhaps have scored on the flat cross late in the game – but the runs in depth were not possible – and yes, of course the Slovenians stood deep, but he was not really dangerous.”
They graded their players on a 0-6 scale, and awarded Hojlund with a 2/6 for his performance. Eriksen was given a 5/6.
“The Manchester United star got his boot off after just a few minutes, and Rasmus Hojlund was generally treated harshly by the Slovenians.
“The striker wanted a lot himself and played with enormous spirit, but unfortunately the last sharpness and the last margins were missing. Rasmus Hojlund needs to score again in the national team. It will loosen up a lot.”
Bold.dk awarded Hojlund with a 4/10 for his performance, while grading Eriksen at a 7/10.
“The Danish fans really want the United star to start, but it was an unredeemed evening for Højlund. The running work was enormous, the pressure the same. But the attacker was not particularly dangerous.
“After the break, another chance came, but again it was just not sharp enough. Five international matches in a row without a goal.”
Hojlund says Denmark deserved the win
Denmark were pegged back by a second half Slovenia equaliser as their grip on the game faded and they drew 1-1.
Rasmus Hojlund still felt his team should have won the match, reflecting on a positive day spoiled only by a failure to get three points.
He wrote on Instagram: “Hearing the national anthem for the first time, seeing Christian score: this game should’ve been rewarded with a win. We move on can’t focus on the past!”
Hojlund and Eriksen take on England up next, who won their opener 1-0 against Serbia through a Jude Bellingham goal.