Under the stars of this summer night, the flame of the European Cup is about to be lit between Germany and Denmark, and a 1/8 final intertwined with fate and miracle is quietly laid out on the temple of football.
The German chariot, with the thunderous momentum of the group stage, crushed the opponent's defense, like a symphony at a classical concert, magnificent, and every roar made people's hearts surge.
And the Danish fairy tale, although it seems a little bleak in the chapter of the group stage, reveals a trace of indomitability in the mediocrity, as if the warrior in Norse mythology, even in adversity can find light.
Germany's path to qualification is like a well-choreographed drama, with the art of scoring goals in every scene.
With a proud record of 2 wins and 1 draw, they set a new record for goals in the group stage of the European Championship, and 8 goals were like bright fireworks, lighting the way to victory.
Whether it was the indiscriminate bombardment of Scotland or the hard-fought battle with Hungary, the German team showed a different composure and determination from previous editions, as if to tell everyone that the Germanic chariot is regaining its championship pride after going through a low point.
Denmark, on the other hand, seems to be a little more fantastical.
Three draws and two goals, such a report card may not look dazzling, but it is enough to put the Danes on the threshold of the knockout rounds.
Their promotion is a testament to perseverance and the best interpretation of the law of "fair play" in the world of football.
Although the Danish team's tactics were criticized as singular, they were solid in defence, allowing the opponent's offensive to fail again and again.
They are like hunters walking alone in the wind and snow, although their pace is slow, they are always aiming at the target, waiting for the moment to kill them.
The clash between the two teams is not only a repetition of history, but also the beginning of a new chapter.
The Germans' attacking prowess needs no detail, but how to secure their defence without a backbone at the back will be a big test.
If the Danes are to write a new fairy tale on the Germans' home turf, they will have to use themselves to find opportunities for quick counter-attacks, and Hojlen's speed and the overall defensive counter-attack of the Danes may be the sharpest sword in their hands.