“The concept of ‘limbs’ materialized at the Stadio Olimpico di Serravalle this Tuesday when San Marino achieved the unexpected. This tiny nation didn’t secure a spot in Euro 2024, nor did they manage to claim all three points. However, they did something remarkable by finding the back of the net for the first time in over two years during their qualifying match against Denmark.

Rasmus Hojlund, the Manchester United striker, opened the scoring just before halftime, putting Fabrizio Consantini’s side behind 1-0 against the Danes. Despite only having 30% possession in the first half, the hosts kept the deficit to just one goal.

The situation improved after the halftime break when Alessandro Golinucci capitalized on one of the three corners won by San Marino, who are ranked 207th in the world. His equalizer was a display of skill, as he reacted swiftly to a botched clearance, volleying the ball into the net from 13 yards out.

Both Hojlund and his United teammate, Christian Eriksen, were on the field when Golinucci’s strike found the back of the net. Despite the significant 189-place difference in FIFA’s latest rankings, the Danes were unable to prevent the hosts from drawing level.

This competitive goal marked San Marino’s first since September 2021, leading to scenes of jubilation among the San Marino players. Golinucci’s sprint towards the dugout was met with ecstatic celebrations, with even the substitutes joining in, creating a dogpile to match the moment’s significance.

Players rushed in from all directions to celebrate with their teammate, who became the first competitive scorer for his country since Nicolas Nanni’s consolation goal during a 7-1 defeat to Poland. It was a surprise that Golinucci emerged unharmed after a pile of his teammates engulfed him.

One delighted viewer on social media commented, “I love how they celebrate like they just won the World Cup haha fair play to them,” Another noted that these scenes would be “unforgettable,” even though San Marino went on to lose 2-1.

RB Leipzig’s Yussuf Poulsen, coming off the bench, scored the deciding goal, evoking sympathy from neutrals across the football world for what might have been.

San Marino’s only win remains a 1-0 friendly victory over Liechtenstein in 2004, but at least the shadow of their recent goal drought has been lifted following a moment that is truly worth savoring.”

A first goal in 12 UEFA matches for San Marino! 😱

Golinucci levels it up against Denmark and the subs are on the pitch to celebrate 🇸🇲#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/MatY3y3uJX

— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) October 17, 2023

San Marino performance and stats

San Marino is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It lost its previous match 1-2 against Denmark.

Denmark performance and stats

Denmark is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It won its previous match 1-2 against San Marino.