On Friday night, in what promises to be an exciting match, Spain will go to Denmark in the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League to claim first place in Group 4 of League A.
Although La Roja has secured its berth in the quarterfinals, it hasn't yet claimed first place. Similarly, Denmark hasn't yet assured itself of a spot in the competition's last eight, even though it only has two matches left to play.
Previous Matches and Head-to-head
With seven points after four games in Group 4 of League A—two wins, one draw, and one loss—Denmark are in second position, three points behind Serbia in third place, and three behind leaders Spain.
The Red and Whites started the 2024–25 Nations League season with victories against Switzerland and Serbia. However, they suffered a 1-0 loss in Spain and tied 2-2 with Switzerland in their most recent match.
If Denmark loses its last two matches, it will complete its group stage campaign in third place, although it is currently in second place and might finish worse if it loses against Serbia on November 18.
Brian Riemer, 46, was named Denmark's new manager on October 24. He had previously managed Anderlecht. This match will be his first as manager.
Only twice in their past seventeen encounters against Spain have the Danes triumphed; their most recent triumph came in March 1993, when they beat Spain 1-0 in a World Cup qualifying match.
In their past eight encounters against Denmark, Spain has won seven and drawn one. In the past month, in the rematch, Spain triumphed 1-0 thanks to a goal from Martin Zubimendi in the 79th minute.
With 10 points after four matches (three wins and a tie), Luis de la Fuente's squad has topped Group 4 in League A and advanced to the quarterfinals.
If they draw on Friday, they will ensure first place in the group. However, if they lose, the group will be open, mainly if Serbia beats Switzerland on the same night.
Spain holds the Nations League trophy after winning against Croatia in the 2022–23 final. They conclude their group stage campaign on November 18 at home against Switzerland.
The national team has not lost a competitive match since a 2023 March qualifier against Scotland. However, La Roja is renowned for its 2024 Euro victory and a perfect record in all competitions since a March friendly against Colombia.
Denmark x Spain Team News
Denmark's new head coach, Riemer, has many tough choices in selecting his squad for this match, particularly with the center third.
Despite his lackluster season for Manchester United, 21-year-old Rasmus Hojlund is a strong candidate to start in the final third of the field, protecting Kasper Dolberg and Yussuf Poulsen. Hojlund has scored seven goals in twenty matches for his nation.
Clubmate Christian Eriksen, who has also been sidelined recently, should start alongside Hojlund, and the gifted Patrick Dorgu, who plays left wing-back, may only get four caps.
Midfielders Morten Hjulmand and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg are set to start together, and Fulham's outstanding performer this season, Joachim Andersen, will likely begin in the back three.
On the other hand, the European champions are without Pau Torres, who has pulled out with a muscle injury, as well as Unai Simon, Dani Carvajal, Rodri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal.
Alvaro Morata, the captain, has scored 37 goals for his nation. He is expected to start after suffering a head injury in training with AC Milan.
In addition to Pedro Porro at right back, Nico Williams and Dani Olmo also run for positions in the last third of the field.
Alex Grimaldo and Marc Cucurella are competing in the left-back position. Samu Omorodion, Aitor Paredes, and Marc Casado will all be looking to make their national team debuts on Friday.
Our Predictions
Spain to win @ 1.86 on Sky247.ng
With Spain missing several key players, this is a close matchup, and a win for Denmark on Friday night would not be surprising. However, we predict De la Fuente's Spain squad will win their last group-stage encounter because of their exceptional offensive talent.
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