On September 5, 2024, Denmark will host Switzerland at Parken Stadium in Copenhagen as the UEFA Nations League kicks off its 2024/25 season.
This match not only serves as a competitive fixture between two strong European teams but also as a vital opportunity for both sides to secure a pathway to the 2026 World Cup.
With both nations coming off commendable performances at the recent European Championship, this clash promises to be intensely competitive.
Match Preview
Denmark enters this match after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Germany in the round of 16 at the 2024 European Championship.
Despite a strong showing in the first half, the Danes were unable to keep their momentum, conceding a penalty early in the second half followed by another goal that sealed their fate.
This loss marked only their first defeat in eight matches across all competitions, showcasing a solid run that included victories over teams like Faroe Islands, Sweden, and Norway, alongside draws against Slovenia, England, and Serbia.
Historically, Denmark has been formidable in the Nations League, winning four of their last six matches and remaining unbeaten in six of their last eight home games in the competition.
The Danes have managed to maintain a robust defensive record at home, making them difficult opponents for visiting teams.
Additionally, both teams have scored in four of their last six fixtures, indicating a potential for goals in this matchup.
Switzerland, on the other hand, comes into this encounter following their own heartbreak in the quarterfinals of the Euro 2024, where they were eliminated by England in a penalty shootout after a tense match that saw them concede a late equalizer.
This defeat is the only blemish in an otherwise strong run, as the Swiss have gone unbeaten in their last nine matches, including victories over Hungary and Italy during the European Championship.
Despite their strong form, Switzerland has struggled on the road in the Nations League, managing just one win in their last seven away matches in this competition.
However, they have shown promise, with both teams scoring in three of their last four away trips in the Nations League.
Head to Head
Denmark has proven to be a challenging opponent for Switzerland in recent matchups, remaining unbeaten in their last five encounters.
Their most recent meeting ended in a goalless draw on March 23, 2024, during a friendly.
Historically, Denmark has secured five wins against Switzerland, while the Swiss have won three times, with seven matches ending in draws.
This trend suggests a closely contested match, with Denmark perhaps holding the psychological edge.
Team News
Denmark will be without Matt O’Riley and Frederik Rønnow due to injury, but they still possess a wealth of experience in their squad.
Key players such as Kasper Schmeichel, Jannik Vestergaard, Joachim Andersen, Christian Eriksen, and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg will be crucial to their performance.
Switzerland, meanwhile, will miss the services of veterans Xherdan Shaqiri, Fabian Schär, and Yann Sommer, all of whom have retired from international football.
Granit Xhaka is expected to captain the team, providing leadership from the midfield, while Breel Embolo will likely spearhead the attack.
Prediction
Given Denmark’s solid home form and their historical advantage over Switzerland, we predict a narrow victory for the Danes.
Both teams are known for their offensive capabilities, and the match could see goals from both sides, but Denmark’s home advantage may ultimately prove decisive.
- Score Prediction: Denmark 2-1 Switzerland
Betting Tips
Denmark to Win: Betting on a Denmark victory is a wise choice given their strong home record and recent performances.
Both Teams to Score – Yes: With both teams showing attacking intent, placing a bet on both teams to score could yield favorable returns.
Over 2.5 Goals: Given the offensive capabilities of both sides, betting on over 2.5 total goals in the match is advisable.
Granit Xhaka to Score Anytime: As the captain, Xhaka may take on a more significant role in the attack, making a bet on him to score a goal worth considering.
