Highlights: Denmark Snags Narrow Victory Over a Spirited Welsh Side in the Nations League
In a hard-fought battle in Viborg, Wales put forth an impressive showing but ultimately fell short, losing 2-1 to Denmark in the Women’s Nations League’s Group Three of League A.
Denmark’s Amalie Vangsgaard broke the deadlock by expertly nodding the ball into the corner of the goal. Not too long afterward, Sofie Bredgaard stretched Denmark’s lead with a swerving left-footer just before halftime.
A 72nd-minute strike by Jess Fishlock breathed life into the match, setting up a nail-biting finale, but the Danes were able to hunker down and secure the win.
Prior to the match, Wales’ coach Gemma Grainger described this period as the most challenging of her managerial tenure, especially after her team’s second consecutive 5-1 drubbing by Germany. Although this defeat didn’t lift Wales from the group’s basement, it did highlight their significant progress, as they went toe-to-toe with the world’s 12th-ranked team.
With key players Hannah Cain and Ceri Holland sidelined due to injuries, and Rachel Rowe unavailable for travel, Grainger took the bold step of tinkering with her formation, transitioning to a five-back system. New inclusions Ffion Morgan and Carrie Jones injected pace into the Welsh front line, making them far more competitive than in their previous clash against Germany.
As they eye a crucial home game against Iceland on December 1, Wales aimed to elevate their performance compared to their lackluster outing in Sinsheim, where Germany bombarded their goal with 35 attempts. The tactical shift did bring some stability, although Denmark looked more menacing in the game’s early phases.
Wales benefited from some Danish profligacy in front of the goal, including misfires from Vangsgaard and Sanne Troelsgaard. Olivia Clark, the Bristol City shot-stopper, also came up big by parrying away an early Vangsgaard attempt. Despite stifling Denmark for nearly half an hour, Wales’ defense was ultimately pierced by another header, this time from Vangsgaard, who exploited ample space to direct the ball past Clark.
Positioned at the bottom of Group A3 after four matches, Wales struggled to gain a foothold as Denmark dominated possession. Their situation worsened when Angharad James was dispossessed, leading to Bredgaard’s second goal for the hosts. However, a moment of brilliance from Fishlock and a well-timed pass from Sophie Ingle got Wales on the scoreboard.
Suddenly invigorated, Wales pressed higher up the field, forcing Denmark onto the back foot. While they couldn’t muster an equalizer, the Welsh side ended the match on a high note, looking far more like the side that could pose a threat in the group.
Wales’ manager Gemma Grainger reflected on the match, “The second half showcased the grit of this team. They could’ve folded, but they didn’t. Although we lost, we’re showing real signs of growth. There’s a big gap between us and the top teams, but that’s exactly the gap we’re determined to close. I’ve got full confidence in the direction we’re headed.”
Match Statistics
- Denmark (Home)
- Possession: 68%
- Shots: 14
- Shots on Target: 6
- Corners: 7
- Fouls: 8
- Wales (Away)
- Possession: 32%
- Shots: 4
- Shots on Target: 1
- Corners: 0
- Fouls: 8
So there you have it, folks. A match that showcased resilience, growth, and a hint of “what could have been” for the Welsh side. But let’s not forget, in the unforgiving theater of football, it’s the scoreboard that has the final say.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Denmark vs Wales Women’s Nations League
Who scored the goals for Denmark and Wales in this Women’s Nations League match?
Amalie Vangsgaard and Sofie Bredgaard scored for Denmark, while Jess Fishlock scored the lone goal for Wales.
What changes did Wales’ manager Gemma Grainger make in this match?
Gemma Grainger switched to a five-back formation for the first time and brought in Ffion Morgan and Carrie Jones to inject some pace into the Welsh attack.
What did Wales’ performance in this match indicate?
Despite losing, the performance indicated significant improvement and competitiveness for Wales, especially when compared to their previous matches against top-ranked teams like Germany.
Was this a crucial match for Wales in the Women’s Nations League?
Yes, it was a critical match, especially as Wales is at the bottom of their group and facing potential relegation. Their upcoming home game against Iceland on December 1 is likely to be pivotal.
What are the key statistics for the match?
Denmark had 68% possession, 14 shots with 6 on target, 7 corners, and committed 8 fouls. Wales had 32% possession, 4 shots with 1 on target, no corners, and also committed 8 fouls.
How did the weather conditions affect the game?
The game was played on a freezing cold evening in Viborg, although the text doesn’t specify if the weather had a direct impact on the players or the match outcome.
Who are the key players that were unavailable for Wales?
Hannah Cain and Ceri Holland were sidelined due to injuries, and Rachel Rowe was unable to travel, making them unavailable for selection.
What is the general sentiment from Wales’ manager after the match?
Gemma Grainger expressed pride in the team’s growth and resilience. While acknowledging the gap between Wales and the top teams, she expressed full confidence in the direction the team is headed.
How did the match end?
The match ended with a 2-1 victory for Denmark, despite a late-game surge from Wales that made for a nail-biting finale.
What’s next for Wales in the Women’s Nations League?
Their next key match is a home clash against Iceland on December 1, which is likely to have significant implications for their standing in the league.
More about Denmark vs Wales Women’s Nations League
- Women’s Nations League Official Site
- Wales Women’s Football Team News
- Denmark Women’s Football Team Updates
- Gemma Grainger’s Managerial Career
- Jess Fishlock Player Profile
- Viborg Venue Details
- Upcoming Iceland vs Wales Match Preview
- Previous Wales vs Germany Match Summary
- UEFA Women’s Rankings
- Nations League Group A3 Standings
10 comments
Fishlock’s goal was epic! Seriously thought we were in for a big comeback moment.
Those last 10 mins were intense. Wales was like a whole new team. Too bad they couldnt get the equalizer tho.
No penalty for that handball? C’mon ref, you gotta be kidding me!
Vangsgaard and Bredgaard were fire tonight. Those goals were art, pure art!
Man, what a game! Wales really showed some guts there, but Denmark was just too strong. Kudos to both teams tho!
Anybody knows why Rachel Rowe couldn’t travel? Feel like we missed her presence on the field.
Ahhh! So close yet so far. I’m telling ya, we’re getting better each game. Watch out, Iceland!
Lets be honest, Wales needs to step it up if they wanna stay in League A. Iceland game is gonna be do or die.
68% possession for Denmark? Wow, they were dominating. But hey, kudos to Wales for hanging in there.
Did anyone else notice how Grainger switched to a 5-back formation? Interesting move, kinda worked but not enough I guess.