On Thursday, Denmark and England face off in a crucial Euro 2024 Group C encounter at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. This match could decide the fate of both teams' progression to the knockout stages.
It's the first meeting between the two nations since England's dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory in the Euro 2020 semi-finals.
Current Form
Denmark
Denmark enters this match after a 1-1 draw against Slovenia. Christian Eriksen, returning to the continental stage, scored an early goal, only to see Slovenia equalise later.
Denmark's form has been stable, with only one loss in their last 13 international matches since March 2023.
However, they have struggled in European Championships, winning just one of their last six group-stage games.
England
England comes into this match buoyed by a 1-0 win over Serbia. Jude Bellingham's early header secured the victory, putting England in a strong position in Group C.
England has shown defensive resilience, keeping five consecutive clean sheets in the group stage of the European Championships, a record in the competition's history.
Team News
Denmark
Coach Kasper Hjulmand is likely to stick with the same starting lineup that faced Slovenia.
The defensive trio of Joachim Andersen, Andreas Christensen, and Jannik Vestergaard will be key, with Kasper Schmeichel in goal.
The midfield will feature Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Morten Hjulmand, while Eriksen will play in the number 10 role. Up front, Rasmus Hojlund and Jonas Wind are expected to lead the attack.
England
Gareth Southgate may also stick with his winning lineup. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Phil Foden could be at risk of being replaced, but changes are unlikely.
Declan Rice will anchor the midfield, supported by Jude Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold.
Bukayo Saka, Foden, and Harry Kane will form the attacking trio, aiming to break down Denmark's defence.
Prediction
Key Factors To Consider
Midfield Battle: The performance of midfielders like Bellingham and Eriksen will be crucial.
Attack: The efficiency (or lack thereof) of forwards like Kane and Hojlund could decide the winner.
Given their recent form and defensive strength, England is slightly favoured to win this encounter. However, Denmark's potential to disrupt England's rhythm cannot be overlooked.
We predict a tight match, with England edging out a narrow 1-0 victory to secure their place in the last 16.