Preview for Denmark v Scotland
Scotland’s latest bid to secure a place at the World Cup finals after a 30-year absence begins tomorrow night in Copenhagen.
Steve Clarke’s men enjoyed their appearance at Euro 2024, even if it did end in a group-stage exit, but they yearn for a place among the major global nations in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer.
A trip to Denmark offers the chance to make a real statement in a group that also includes Belarus and Greece. The Danes are the top seeds in the pool and any kind of result at Parken would enhance Scotland’s chances of securing a top-two finish that would guarantee at least a playoff spot.
That won’t be straightforward though with Denmark having won 25 of their past 28 home games in all competitions (D1 L2), keeping 18 clean sheets in the process.
Bournemouth midfielder Ryan Christie, who will win his 60th cap tomorrow night, told BBC Sport: “It [qualification] would be a massive achievement for everyone who’s been involved in this journey so far.
“It’s six massive games, six cup finals if you will. I think we go into it in a good place because we know how much we want it.
“We’ve got the experience of the Euros and the last qualifiers. We know what’s needed.
“All the boys that have qualified before, I think this is the one thing that’s missing for so many of us. We’re desperate to do it along with the gaffer.”
Denmark are more established on the big stage and have qualified for the last two World Cup finals.
Coach Brian Riemer will hope striker Rasmus Hojlund can regain his best form having swapped Manchester United for Napoli.
Team News for Denmark v Scotland
Hojlund is likely to get the nod over William Osula, the Newcastle striker who was linked with Eintracht Frankfurt on Monday. Andreas Christensen returns to add some muscle to the defence.
Scotland have been handed a double blow with Tony Ralston and Kieran Tierney both having to withdraw through injury.
Ballon d’Or nominee Scott McTominay will be expected to provide a goal threat from midfield.
Predicted line-ups for Denmark v Scotland
Denmark: Schmeichel; Kristensen, Andersen, Vestergaard, Dorgu; Hojbjerg, Hjulmand; Dreyer, Dolberg, Damsgaard; Hojlund
Scotland: Gunn; Hickey, Souttar, McKenna, Robertson; Gilmour, McLean, Christie, McTominay, McGinn; Adams
How to watch Denmark v Scotland: TV and online streams
Denmark versus Scotland kicks off at 7.45pm UK time tomorrow night. You can watch it on BBC Scotland and BBC Two.
It can be streamed on the BBC iPlayer.
