On Wednesday afternoon, Australia and Denmark face off in a vital last match of Group D at the World Cup.
Australia form guideLast time out, Australia recorded what could be a crucial victory, as they defeated Tunisia 1-0 courtesy of a goal from striker Mitchell Duke. The wins means that Graham Arnold’s team are in second place in the group heading in this vital game.
Another victory in this clash would put the Socceroos through the knockout stages of the competition for only the second time. However, a draw would be enough if Tunisia fails to defeat France in the other game of the group.
The win over Tunisia ended a seven-game winless run at World Cups for Australia, a run that included six defeats.
Denmark form guideKasper Hjulmand’s team know that only a win would put them through to the knockout stages of the competition. Even then, it could come down to goal difference if Tunisia does the unthinkable and beats group leaders France.
A 2-1 loss against France last time out continued Denmark’s poor recent run of form, as they have now won just one of their last four international games. Their recent games have also been relatively low-scoring, as there have been under 2.5 goals in four of their previous six matches.
Denmark wins have been rare at recent World Cups, as the defeat last time out means that the Scandinavians have failed to win in their previous five matches in the competition.
Latest team newsAustralia has doubts over the fitness of versatile Hearts star Nathaniel Atkinson, as he missed the victory over Tunisia due to an ankle issue.
Denmark has lost the services of Sevilla midfielder Thomas Delaney. The experienced midfielder has left the squad due to a knee injury. Influential centre-back Simon Kjaer missed the defeat against France but is expected to return to the starting line-up for this clash.
What am I backing?Neither of these teams has been prolific at the World Cup, and I believe that won’t change in this massive clash, so I am backing under 2.5 goals scored.
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