Denmark journeys to Belfast to face Northern Ireland in a Euro 2024 qualifier on Monday, aiming to secure a spot in Pot 1 for the tournament draw.
After defeating Slovenia 2-1, Denmark is assured of participation but eyes a higher seeding with a win.
Match Preview:
Already through to the finals and winning the group, Denmark aims to potentially secure a Pot 1 seeding with a victory here.
Although a draw ensures Pot 2, Denmark hopes for a slip-up from Spain against Georgia to bolster their chances for a higher seeding.
Denmark’s qualification has seen some shaky moments, contrasting their flawless 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Thomas Delaney’s winning goal against Slovenia aided their path to the finals, showcasing improvement from a stumbling start.
Northern Ireland’s campaign, marred by losses including a 4-0 defeat to Finland, ends here.
With a turbulent international period, their woes include seven defeats in nine matches and only two victories against San Marino.
Northern Ireland faced a harsh VAR decision that disallowed a late equalizer in their previous encounter against Denmark.
Despite their struggles, they seek a stronger showing to conclude a challenging campaign.
Team News:
Northern Ireland faces absences due to recent injuries to Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Paddy Lane, Brad Lyons, Jonny Evans, Shayne Lavery, and Ali McCann. Their lineup might remain unchanged despite a heavy loss in their last outing.
Denmark faces several injuries with players like Robert Skov, Christian Eriksen, Alexander Bah, and others sidelined.
Kasper Schmeichel, set for his 99th cap, leads Denmark, possibly aiming to field a competitive team despite the injuries.
Possible Lineups:
Northern Ireland:(4-5-1)
Hazard;
Toal, McNair, Ballard, Hume;
McCausland, Saville, Thompson, Price, Lewis;
D Charles
Denmark:(5-3-2)
Schmeichel;
Maehle, Andersen, Christensen, Vestergaard, Kristiansen;
Hojbjerg, Norgaard, Delaney;
Wind, Poulsen
Prediction: Northern Ireland 0-2 Denmark
With Denmark’s goal of a higher seeding and Northern Ireland’s offensive struggles in qualifiers, Denmark is likely to secure a comfortable win, aiming to capitalize on any opportunity for a Pot 1 spot.
