Denmark: 2010 World Cup Soccer Preview

Denmark shocked many when they not only qualified for the World Cup, but did so by topping their group over the likes of Portugal, who was ranked 5^th in the world, and Sweden. But Denmark did that just with a 6-3-1 record and will make their 4^th World Cup Final appearance in South Africa. Not much is expected of the Danes, but they just might prove to be the dark horse of the tournament especially if they can avoid the injury bug which almost derailed them in qualifications, . They will face off against Holland, Cameroon and Japan in Group E in the opening round.

Key players for Denmark include;

Thomas Sorenson, who was the goalie for Denmark in the 2002 World Cup Finals when they reached the quarterfinals and was a strong presence in qualifications, will once again be in goal.

Denmark, a team known for their stingy defense, will be led by Daniel Agger and Simon Kjaar. The two formed a brilliant relationship during qualification and worked together well. Agger is known for his ball handling and tough tackling who knows how to read the opponent and position himself well to make interceptions. While Kjaar anticipates well and is known for strength and quick feet which allows him to get out of trouble. He is considered to be one of Europe's up and coming and most sought-after defenders..

The Danish attack will be led by a trio of midfielders, Daniel Jensen, Christan Poulsen and Dennis Rommedahl. Poulsen, the most experienced of the three will lead the attack with his hard-running and hard-tackling. The Danes will look to striker Nicklas Bendtner to finish off their attack. Bendtner, who exudes confidence, is known for his aerial ability and versatility. He will be joined by Soren Larsen who the Danes with 5 goals in qualifications.

After their surprising success in qualification, the Danish team exudes confidence and they fully expect to advance past the first round, a feat they have accomplished in each of their three previous World Cup appearances. But the young squad often finds it hard to score against the top teams, a factor that may well determine how far they go in the tournament. Denmark will look for its defense to continue the strong effort they showed in qualifications, 5 goals in 10 games. If the defense steps up look for the Danes to advance to the knockout stage. But with the Dutch team favored to win the group, the Danes will most likely battle Japan and Cameroon for the second spot in the group and a trip to the second round.

The Danes first match will be against the powerful Dutch team on June 14th, a game that very well could set the tone for the rest of the tournament. Their next two games will be against Cameroon on June 19^th and Japan on June 24th.

Source: www.fifa.com