Denmark took a giant step toward qualifying for a third successive FIFA World Cup finals with a dominant 4-0 victory over North Macedonia in their play-off semi-final. The win marks their 17th triumph in 21 home games, underscoring their formidable form on home soil.
Denmark thrash North Macedonia 4-0 in WC Qualifier
First Half Dominance Sets the Tone
Denmark controlled the opening 45 minutes, limiting North Macedonia to few threats on goal. Stole Dimitrievski faced far more action than Mads Hermansen, who deputized for the injured Kasper Schmeichel.
Joakim Mæhle created the first clear opportunity, but Dimitrievski denied him after he entered the penalty area. Hermansen responded with a crucial save on Darko Churlinov’s curling free-kick, serving as a rare warning for the hosts.
Alexander Bah fired just wide, and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg tested Dimitrievski once more, yet Denmark headed into halftime without a goal.
Second Half Explosion Secures Progression
The breakthrough arrived early in the second half, with Mikkel Damsgaard firing a rebound into the corner for his fifth home goal in seven matches.
Damsgaard then assisted Gustav Isaksen, who controlled the cross and struck in off the post to double the lead.
Isaksen struck again shortly after, capitalizing on another rebound to complete a quickfire double and seal the win before the hour mark.
Rasmus Højlund, Denmark’s leading qualifier scorer, missed a chance late on by lashing wide. The fourth goal came from a corner, as Christian Eriksen picked out Christian Nørgaard for a powerful header.
North Macedonia’s hopes of a maiden World Cup appearance ended abruptly, as Denmark now stand one match from the finals.
For the latest match updates and scores, visit Resultados Futbol Hoy.