Denmark Secures Victory Over Greece, Setting Up Decisive Match Against Scotland

Denmark continued their strong performance in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers by defeating Greece 3-1 at their home stadium on Sunday. This victory eliminated Greece from contention and ensured the Group C title will be contested until the final matches.

Despite Greece’s early control of the ball, a critical error in the 21st minute shifted the momentum. Rasmus Hojlund capitalized on a poor back pass from Greek midfielder Christos Zafeiris, easily scoring the opening goal.

Joachim Andersen extended Denmark’s advantage in the 40th minute with a header from a Mikkel Damsgaard corner. He swiftly added another goal a minute later, further exploiting defensive weaknesses in the Greek team.

Denmark reduced their pace in the second half, allowing Greece to score in the 63rd minute. Christos Tzolis managed to send a powerful shot past Kasper Schmeichel during a counterattack, marking the first goal conceded by Denmark in the qualifiers.

Although Greece applied pressure late in the game, they were unable to score again. Schmeichel made a crucial save against Giannis Konstantelias, and Andersen cleared Vangelis Pavlidis’s attempt off the goal line, securing the win for Denmark.

Reflecting on the match, Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand acknowledged that the team’s performance could have been better.

Hjulmand’s Remarks
  • “I don’t think we performed at our peak today. The three points are what truly matter. There are times when you don’t play at your highest level. I don’t believe we did today, but we still managed to win 3-1 against a formidable opponent,” he stated.

Following Greece’s loss, Denmark holds the top position in the group with 10 points, narrowly leading Scotland based on goal difference, with only two games remaining.

The upcoming match between Denmark and Scotland next month will be crucial. The winner will automatically qualify for the tournament, while the runner-up will proceed to the playoffs.

Both Denmark and Scotland have already secured at least a spot in the playoffs, while Greece, with only three points, is no longer in contention for qualification.