Denmark vs Spain Preview, Forecasts, and Top Betting Picks
Bringing Down the House: Denmark vs Spain in UEFA Nations League
Get ready for an exciting showdown this Friday night as Denmark takes on Spain in the UEFA Nations League! The Danes have struggled recently, managing just two wins in their last eight matches, while Spain can secure their progress to the next stage with a point in Copenhagen.
Denmark's Form and Fortune
Denmark is a tough nut to crack, as they entered Euro 2024 with just one loss in 12 matches and went unbeaten in the group stage. However, their luck didn't hold, as they were eliminated in the round of 16 following a 2-0 loss to Germany. They kicked off their Nations League campaign with a 2-0 home win over a ten-man Switzerland side, followed by another 2-0 home victory against Serbia despite creating only 0.90 xG. A narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain came next, where they were outshot 25-3, and on Tuesday, they managed a 2-2 draw away in Switzerland, conceding 2.13 xG and allowing 61% possession to their opponents.
Time to Shine: Denmark Team News
The Danish team has seen some changes, with versatile wingback Joakim Mæhle withdrawing from the squad, while Brentford’s Mathias Jensen has not been selected. Brighton midfielder Matt O'Riley, who recently scored against Manchester City, is also left out as he recovers from injury. Key defender Andreas Christensen remains sidelined. However, Brentford midfielder Christian Nørgaard returns after missing the October international break, as does Fulham center-back Joachim Andersen. Mikkel Damsgaard is also back in the squad.
Fighting Spirit: Denmark's Motivation
Coach Lars Knudsen will likely stick to his 3-4-3 formation, which transitions into a defensive 5-4-1 when out of possession. Denmark currently sits second in their group, with a three-point cushion over Serbia. A draw would be an acceptable result for the Danes, as they can secure qualification in their final match if needed.
Spain: Unstoppable Juggernaut
Spain is in unstoppable form, having won Euro 2024 by triumphing in every match of the tournament. Their Nations League campaign started with a surprising 0-0 draw in Serbia, where they dominated possession (74%) and outshot their opponents 21-9. They responded with a commanding 4-1 win over Switzerland, despite playing 70 minutes with ten men. They edged Denmark 1-0 at home with 25 shots and capped off their recent form with a 3-0 victory over Serbia, registering 30 shots and 2.92 xG in a dominant performance.
Spanish Team News
Spain is dealing with several key absences, with Pau Torres, Dani Carvajal, Rodri, and rising star Lamine Yamal all ruled out. Ferran Torres and goalkeeper Unai Simón will also miss this match. However, Porto striker Samu Omorodion Aghehowa has received his first call-up after scoring 12 goals in 13 matches for his club. Dani Olmo is back from injury, while Barcelona’s Marc Casadó could make his debut.
La Roja's Ambition
Spain has lost just one of their last 23 matches and is determined to retain the Nations League title. They will aim for all three points in Copenhagen by dominating possession and imposing their style on a physically strong Danish side.
The Numbers Don't Lie
- Denmark has lost just 3 of their last 20 matches (but only 2 wins in their last 8).
- Denmark has won their last 4 home Nations League matches (all by 2-0 scorelines).
- Spain has lost just 1 of their last 23 matches.
- Spain has won 12 of their last 13 matches, scoring 33 goals in that period.
- Spain has won 7 of their last 8 matches against Denmark.
The Expert's Insight: James O'Connor
James O’Connor, a football analyst who writes about the tactics of the PSL and English Premier League, shares his perspective on this highly anticipated match. Keep your eyes peeled for his expert analysis, tips, and predictions!
Follow James O’Connor on Twitter: @footy_analysis
- Nørgaard returns to Denmark's squad after missing the October international break, potentially filling a crucial role in midfield.
- shoehorned throughout the match as Denmark tries to counteract Spain's possession game.
- Despite Denmark's recent struggles in sports, they will draw on their unbeaten run in the group stage of Euro 2024 for motivation against Spain.
- Denmark's football team might stick to their defensive tactics to limit Spain's attacking opportunities and secure a point in the Nations League match.
- Aghehowa receives his first call-up to Spain's squad, with the Porto striker contributing 12 goals in 13 matches for his club.
