Denmark vs Republic of Ireland Predictions

The Danes and Irish have become well acquainted over recent years, while they’re set for another meeting on Friday. The two met in the playoffs for the 2018 World Cup, while they shared another two clashes in the Nations League. Now the Irish head to Copenhagen to face Denmark for the fifth time in 20 months. However, this time they’re led by Mick McCarthy, after he replaced Martin O’Neill late last year. Can he inspire the Irish to a result in this clash with Denmark to keep their Euro 2020 hopes on track?

Denmark made it to the World Cup off the back of that win over the Irish, while they went on to make the last 16. They’re on course for another major championship, having won their UEFA Nations League group. That has put the Danes into a playoff for the Euros, regardless of what happens in their qualifying group. It seems to be a three-way fight for the top two here, with Denmark and the Irish joined by Nations League Finalists Switzerland.

The Irish head here as the underdogs, despite leading the way early on. While Switzerland and Denmark kicked off with a 3-3 draw, the Irish were able to win both of their opening games to move top. However, this is their first real test following victories over Gibraltar and Georgia. Despite that, McCarthy can be pleased with how well his side defended – something which O’Neill failed to produce from the same squad in the final days of his reign.

While O’Neill has had his reputation as an international boss tarnished, his record against the Danes is nowhere near as bad as made out. While he made huge mistakes in the 5-1 defeat at home to them in the World Cup playoffs, that was one major error. In three of the four meetings between the two, the Republic of Ireland were able to come away with a clean sheet. One other achievement which carries through to today was their improved away displays.

O’Neill’s side were unbeaten on the road in World Cup qualifying, which included a 0-0 draw with Denmark. Improving their solidity on the road has boosted Ireland’s chances of qualifying, which is something which sets McCarthy up well here. Now the Irish meet a Denmark side who have drawn three on the bounce, failing to win either meeting with the Boys in Green last year. With that in mind, we see value in backing the visitors on the Double Chance market here.