England charged by UEFA over fan's laser pointer and 'disturbance' during national anthem

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By Nika Shakhnazarova

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England has been charged by UEFA after Wednesday night's nail-biter Euro 2020 semi-final against Denmark, per BBC.

After winning 2-1 against the Scandinavian team, England managed to secure its place in the final of a men's soccer tournament for the first time since 1966.

But the game wasn't without its controversies, as fans watching at home soon spotted some moments that the game could've done without.

After England was granted a penalty kick, one England fan shone a laser pen into Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel’s face while England's Harry Kane scored during the 14th minute of extra time.

Schmeichel managed to save Kane’s initial spot-kick but the England captain made no mistake on the rebound and the strike proved decisive as Gareth Southgate's team held firm to win 2-1.

There are also an investigation underway into the disruption which took place during Denmark's national anthem after loud boos could be heard and fireworks were set off, BBC reports.

The Football Association could be slapped with a $590 (€500) fine per firework and a fine of $9,400 (€8,000) for the laser pointer.

The "disturbance" during Denmark’s anthem is also likely to result in a hefty fine.

"The case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) in due course," a statement from UEFA said.

Meanwhile, Denmark's manager Kasper Hjulmand disputed referee Danny Makkelie’s decision to award England the 104th-minute penalty.

"It was a penalty which should not have been a penalty," he told reporters shortly after the game ended. "It is something which annoys me right now. We are very disappointed.

"You cannot pass by the ball on the pitch, which has so much influence on the game."

Even commentators in England have cast doubt over the penalty, with sports presenter Richard Keys tweeting: "A great night for England – but anyone that doesn’t condemn Sterling for his dive is kidding themselves. Denmark deserved better.

"VAR failed the game tonight. Or does it suit UEFA to have England in the final? We must be allowed to listen to VAR/ref convos."

Elsewhere in the game, Raheem Sterling was accused of diving while England was hit with accusations of cheating to win.

Sterling insists he was fouled and England was awarded a penalty because of this. Critics, however, don't believe any contact was made between the Danish players and the 26-year-old soccer star.

What's more, over 1,300 people have already signed a petition for an England-Denmark rematch.

Featured image credit: dpa picture alliance / Alamy