The experienced goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, sustained a shoulder injury during Denmark’s Nations League match against Portugal on Sunday evening, after a collision with Diogo Jota. Despite clearly experiencing significant pain, the 38-year-old Schmeichel continued to play, as Denmark had already used up all of their substitute options.
By that point in the match, Schmeichel had already made a crucial save by stopping a penalty from Cristiano Ronaldo. However, his efforts weren’t enough to prevent Portugal from emerging victorious in the encounter.
In the wake of the game, Danish news outlet Nyheder 24 reported that the injury appears to be more serious than initially anticipated, with the severity of the problem causing concern over Schmeichel’s fitness. The outlet indicated that it remains uncertain whether the goalkeeper will be available for Denmark’s next international break in September, which includes a match against Scotland on September 5.
This uncertainty represents a potential setback for Schmeichel’s club, Scottish Premiership champions Leicester City, and their manager, Brendan Rodgers. If Schmeichel is sidelined for an extended period, it could have significant repercussions. His absence would mean he would miss the highly anticipated Scottish Cup semi-final clash against St Johnstone, and if the team progresses, he could be absent for the final. Furthermore, Schmeichel could also miss Leicester’s crucial Champions League qualifiers for the upcoming season, adding more pressure to the situation.
Following the match in Lisbon, Denmark’s team doctor, Morten Boesen, provided some clarity regarding Schmeichel’s condition in an attempt to ease concerns. He confirmed that Schmeichel’s left shoulder was examined with an X-ray following the injury. Fortunately, the X-ray results showed no signs of serious structural damage. However, Boesen acknowledged that Schmeichel was still in significant discomfort from the fall and assured that further tests were being conducted, including an MRI scan, to assess the extent of the injury and determine the best course of action moving forward.
As Denmark awaits further updates on Schmeichel’s condition, the situation remains fluid, and the hope is that the injury does not hinder his ability to participate in upcoming international duties or affect his club’s ambitions.
