Denmark and Australia played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in their Group C match as both nations went end-to-end throughout the game. In a rather even contest, the two sides managed to cancel each other out, however, the Danes may feel hard done by with the decision of VAR going against them.
Mile Jedinak Keeps Socceroos Hopes Alive
End-to-End Stuff Results in an Entertaining Draw
Australia will be the happier of the two countries with the result, whilst the Europeans would have been looking to make it two out of two. The draw gives Australia a glimmer of hope of reaching the next round but they will need to overcome Peru if they are.
Danes Come Out Flying
The Danes came out with an attacking intent in the early stages of the match and got off to a flyer. Christian Eriksen scored his 13th goal in his last 15 international appearances with a fine strike. The Tottenham Hotspur attacker latched onto a beautiful flick from Nicolai Jorgensen and hammered the ball past Mat Ryan.
The Socceroos worked hard to try and get an equaliser, however, their efforts were found wanting with the final ball being rather disappointing. The Australians did finally get back into the game with a penalty, via the VAR process.
Mile Jedinak Nets VAR Equaliser
The Spanish referee did not initially award the penalty. However, once reviewing the replay decided Yussuf Poulsen put his arm up in an unnatural position.
Mile Jedinak stepped up confidently and netted his second penalty of the tournament, following his first against France last week. The goal meant that Kasper Schmeichel’s record of 9 hours and 32 minutes of not conceding for Denmark was broken.
Leckie Starts Lively
Mathew Leckie started the second half in lightning fashion and looked to get Australia ahead. The winger continued to get down the right flank but the Socceroos could not take advantage.
The Danes found it difficult to get going in the second half, a complete contrast to their first 45 minutes. They found themselves in a defensive position, rather than in the final third.
In fact, the European’s were shaky at the back and Australia did have plenty of opportunities to take the lead.
Aaron Mooy struck a blistering shot from outside the box that had Schmeichel concerned, however, it just flew over the crossbar. Tom Rogic had a chance moments later but struck it straight at the goalkeeper.
What’s Next For Each Nation?
Denmark will look to ensure they progress to the next round when they meet France, whilst Australia will face Peru for a spot in the first knockout stage.
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