Kasper Schmeichel was proud of Denmark’s effort despite a penalty shoot-out exit against Croatia in their World Cup last-16 showdown in Nizhny Novgorod.
The Danish stopper also hinted that he believed the referee gave his side a raw deal at times during the match.
Mathias Jorgensen gave Denmark the lead with the fastest goal so far in World Cup 2018 but Mario Mandzukic quickly replied.
A tense affair unfolded thereafter with chances limited as the Danes played to their strengths against a talented opponent.
In extra-time, Schmeichel denied Luka Modric the opportunity to win the game with three minutes remaining when he stopped his penalty.
The netminder would save two more in a dramatic shoot-out but it wasn’t enough as opposite number Danijel Subasic halted three of Denmark’s five spot-kicks.
Denmark had only once previously reached the last eight of the World Cup – losing to Brazil at France ’98. Leicester City’s Schmeichel was named Man of the Match in defeat, though that was little consolation to him.
“It’s a strange feeling. Huge disappointment. But also enormous pride about our team,” he said.
“I think today we had the opportunity. I think we were the better team in the second half and the extra-time.
“I don’t think we had any luck. I don’t think the referee liked us. It is difficult to accept and put into words. There are many emotions right now.”
Croatia move on to face hosts Russia in the quarter-finals after a lacklustre performance.
They are now 6.50 to win the World Cup and 2.25 to defeat Russia in their next game.
Link Dafabet