A fan shined a laser pointer in the face of Denmark goalie Kasper Schmeichel ahead of a penalty kick in the first period of extra-time in Wednesday’s Euro 2020 semi-final match between England and Denmark.
Kasper Schmeichel dives to make a save against Harry Kane. Pool via REUTERSThe incident occurred in the 104th minute after England’s Raheem Sterling drew a crucial penalty inside the box. While England’s Harry Kane prepared to take the kick, cameras showed a green light dotting the right side of Schmeichel’s face.
In spite of the apparent distraction, Schmeichel managed to save the initial kick with a lunging save. Yet Kane knocked home the rebound, notching the eventual game-winning goal and propelling England into Sunday’s final against Italy.
England has been charged by UEFA for the incident. England also faces two additional charges — one for the lighting of fireworks by English supporters and the other for disturbances caused by fans during Denmark’s national anthem.
In a statement, UEFA said that “the case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body in due course.”
