Australia and Denmark round off their World Cup group stage campaigns when they meet at the Al Janoub Stadium on Wednesday.
Denmark’s defeat to France on Saturday, combined with Australia’s victory over Tunisia, has left the Euro 2020 semi-finalists in need of a victory to stand a chance of progressing to the knockout stage of the World Cup in Qatar.
With France’s progress from Group D already assured, all three of the other sides could clinch second place, which is occupied by Australia heading into the final matchday.
Kickoff – 16:00 G.M.T
Venue – Al -/Janoub Stadium
Venue – Al -/Janoub Stadium
Team news
Having just one point from their first two games, Denmark knows anything less than a win here will result in elimination.
They need to work harder up front, scoring only once through Andreas Christensen through a set piece. Andreas Cornelius has been poor so far and a more aggressive approach utilising both Martin Braithwaite and Kasper Dolberg instead may yield more success.
Graham Arnold isn’t likely to tamper with the starting XI that beat Tunisia. Mitchell Duke scored the winner with an excellent header and the Socceroos will continue to whip balls into the middle for their Fagiano Okayama striker to attack.
Denmark predicted lineup (3-4-1-2):
Schmeichel; Andersen, A. Christensen, Nelson; Kristensen, Hojbjerg, Eriksen, Maehle; Damsgaard; Braithwaite, Dolberg.
Australia predicted (4-4-2):
Ryan; Karacic, Souttar, Rowles, Behich; Leckie, Irvine, Mooy, Goodwin; Duke, McGree.
Odds /prediction
While Denmark will surely be the favourites, Australia’s impressive defensive display looks like the worst possible match-up for a team struggling to score.
Australia to win: 11/2
Draw: 16/5
Denmark to win: 1/2
