In a highly anticipated Euro 2024 qualification match, Finland is set to face off against their Nordic neighbors, Denmark, at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Both teams are eager to strengthen their prospects for the upcoming European Championship.
Finland Leads Group H
Finland currently leads Group H with a two-point advantage after securing a 1-0 victory over Kazakhstan. Their winning streak has been impressive, as they have won their last four Euro 2024 qualifiers without conceding a single goal.
This remarkable run includes victories over Northern Ireland, Slovenia, and a resounding 6-0 win against San Marino.
The only blemish on their record came in their opening fixture against Denmark, where they suffered a defeat.
Denmark’s Campaign
Denmark, on the other hand, is also in contention for Euro 2024 qualification. They recently defeated San Marino 4-0, displaying their dominance on the field.
However, they faced a setback with a surprising 3-2 loss to Kazakhstan. Despite this, they managed to bounce back with a 1-0 win over Northern Ireland and a 1-1 draw against Slovenia.
Denmark remains on track for Euro 2024 qualification and has a chance to overtake Finland in Group H with a victory in this crucial match.
Historical Significance
Finland’s journey in European Championships has been marked by historic moments. In the previous tournament, they made their first-ever appearance but couldn’t advance beyond the group stage.
Notably, they achieved a shock victory over Denmark in Copenhagen during that competition.
Predicted Lineups
For Finland, coach Markku Kanerva is likely to stick with the lineup that secured victory against Kazakhstan. This includes standout performers like Oliver Antman, Joel Pohjanpalo, and Teemu Pukki.
Denmark’s Kasper Hjulmand is expected to make several changes to the team that played against San Marino, with players like Rasmus Hojlund, Yussuff Poulsen, and Martin Braithwaite vying for starting positions.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Finland:
- Hradecky
- Hoskonen
- Ivanov
- Jensen
- Alho
- Kairinen
- Schuller
- Niskanen
- Antman
- Pohjanpalo
- Pukki
Denmark:
- Schmeichel
- Larsen
- Kjaer
- Andersen
- Maehle
- Jensen
- Hojbjerg
- Eriksen
- Olsen
- Hojlund
- Poulsen
Match Prediction: Finland 1-1 Denmark
While Denmark won convincingly in the reverse fixture, Finland’s recent streak of clean-sheet victories suggests they can hold their Nordic neighbors to a draw in this crucial Euro 2024 qualification clash.