Denmark v Australia preview

Denmark take on Australia in World Cup Group C and, after edging out Peru, the Europeans know a victory could see them qualify for the knockout phase with a game to spare.

The Danes rode their luck at times in their opener and were arguably fortunate to come away with a win. Peru missed a penalty before Denmark broke the deadlock, but Age Hareide’s men did show their quality in the final third in the second half.

Australia competed well in a 2-1 defeat to France in their first match and they should take heart from that performance, despite finishing empty handed.  The Socceroos find themselves in desperate need of a result in this match now though, and will be well aware that only a win will do if they are to keep their destiny in their own hands.

Denmark are the favourites at 1.95, Australia are 3.30 and the draw is available at 4.10.  A draw could be a solid bet in this encounter, as Denmark struggled to break down Peru for large periods and the Socceroos looked an organised unit against the French.

Admittedly in Christian Eriksen, Denmark do have a player who can unlock any defence but he undoubtedly needed more support from the other attacking players against Peru and it remains to be seen if he will get it in this second fixture.  The Spurs star may well have to do it alone and could be a candidate to grab a goal, with Eriksen 7.00 to open the scoring or 3.25 to find the back of the net at anytime.

Hareide will be forced into at least one change for the second group match, after William Kvist was forced off on a stretcher in the win over Peru.  The midfielder is hopeful of returning should Denmark navigate their way out of the group, but he will miss Thursday’s second match and Lasse Schone may start in his absence.

Australia have no injury or suspension concerns but coach Bert van Marwijk may be tempted to hand Melbourne City teenage winger Daniel Arzani – the youngest player in Russia – a start after he impressed as a substitute against France.