Preview: Denmark vs Australia
The Danes kicked off their World Cup 2018 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Peru and will want to follow that up with a victory over the Socceroos, who could be facing an early exit if they lose at the Samara Arena.
Australia’s forward Tim Cahill (L), coach Bert van Marwijk and midfielder Mile Jedinak (R) pose on the sideline of a training session in Kazan on June 12, 2018, ahead of the Russia 2018 World Cup football tournament. / AFP PHOTO / SAEED KHAN
Bert van Marwijk’s men were unfortunate to be edged out 2-1 by France in their opener and will have to get something against Denmark in order to prolong their time in Russia beyond the first stage.
Jonas Knudsen is expected to be involved in the clash despite flying home to see his baby daughter immediately after Saturday’s victory over Peru as the defender has returned to the Denmark squad in time but William Kvist is out. The midfielder has to be stretchered off at the weekend with a rib injury although it’s not as serious as first thought and he could yet be fit for the latter stages – if Denmark make it.
The Aussies face a tough test breaking down the Danes, who are on an unbeaten run of 16 games in all competitions, while they have also registered five successive clean sheets going into the game, but they impressed against France and will look to forward Andrew Nabbout to provide a cutting edge up front or Tomi Juric if he comes into the side after starting the opener on the bench.
