Denmark v Republic of Ireland preview: Teams ready for World Cup play-off

Republic of Ireland are looking to qualify for their first World Cup since 2002 when they travel to Copenhagen to face Denmark on Saturday, live on Sky Sports.

The Danes have missed out on the last two major tournaments, meaning both teams will be eager to make it to Russia next summer.

Martin O’Neill’s side finished the group stages with 19 points, ending up in second place thanks to a 1-0 win over Wales in the final game.
Denmark have Spurs playmaker Christian Eriksen at their disposal, but the midfielder knows it won’t be easy against an experienced Ireland side.

„I think we are very excited to go into the game,“ Eriksen said. „We know it will be a very tough game against an Irish team that has done very well in qualification.

„They stick to what they have as their plan, their plan so far has been fighting and going for the counter.

„We need to be careful but of course we have to take our chances and then we will have a good chance.“
Team news

Jeff Hendrick has recovered from a gluteal muscle problem to ensure his availability against Denmark. Burnley team-mate Stephen Ward is also fit after being kept out of training at the start of the week.

Midfielder David Meyler is suspended for the first leg, while James McCarthy. Jonathan Walters and Richard Keogh are all absent through injury.

Denmark are boosted by the news experienced defender Simon Kjaer is fit after he suffered a hamstring problem in Sevilla’s defeat to Barcelona.
Opta stats

Republic of Ireland are unbeaten in their last four internationals against Denmark (W2 D2), with those wins coming in their last two contests, although both were friendlies.

Both sides have an identical record in the six games played in Denmark, both winning two (D2).

Shane Long scored twice in Republic of Ireland’s last visit to Denmark in August 2007, winning 4-0 in Arhus.

Republic of Ireland have only lost one of their last five play-off qualifiers away from home (W1 D3) and are unbeaten in the last three (W1 D2).

During World Cup 2018 qualifying Christian Eriksen scored eight goals and provided three assists for Denmark – scoring more goals than any other midfielder in qualifying.
Charlie’s prediction

I’m actually quite surprised by Denmark being odds-on for this first leg. I understand them being favourites but I think Republic of Ireland are a pretty good price at bigger than 4/1 here.

Ireland are going to park the bus, be compact at the back, play Daryl Murphy up front alone and attempt to play on the counter-attack as Denmark get desperate to establish a first-leg lead.

Christian Eriksen is obviously the big threat but, while I can’t say I’m his biggest fan, James McClean seems to have carved a role out for himself as their away day hero.Euro Soccer Bonus

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