Australia will look to get their first point/s in Russia this Thursday against Denmark, who are currently second in Group B. Will the Socceroos eke out a win and put themselves in the thick of the race to the top of the group? Or will the Danes solidify their standing?
Getting past Peru definitely feels good for Denmark, as it puts them in the top two of the Group along with France. Not to shabby, indeed. The 1-0 win over Peru showed the Denmark side struggle early against Peru’s pressure, which largely explains why the Danes where outshot in the match, 18-10. Denmark’s composure, however, helped the team weather the pressure to pass the tough test. Yussuf Poulsen nailed the only goal of the match with a second-half score off of a Christian Eriksen assist. More pressure came Denmark’s way following that goal, but again, the team’s poise carried them until the end of the contest. Tottenham man Eriksen failed to get on the scoring column, but that dime je gave Poulsen showed how capable he is of making a difference without looking for the back of the net. Still, Denmark would like it more if he gets it going, scoring-wise.
Betting on Australia (+315)
Although they lost in their opening match, 2-1, to France, there’s some silver lining for Australia from that match to feel good about. For one, they weren’t destroyed, annihilated, or seemingly overpowered by the powerhouse that France is as what the final score suggests. The moral victory should serve the Socceroos well moving forward and against Denmark, who are a lesser team than Le Bleus. The firm defense Australia put on the field against France was admirable, and it has a chance of looking even better opposite Denmark’s side which does not have the level of star power France have. Australia did not let themselves get dominated in the possession battle, securing the ball 49 percent of the time. Miles Jedinak scored the lone goal for the Socceroos, who had more tackles and blocks than France. Australia could have lost this match in an uglier manner.
