Date: 11 October, 2014
Venue: Stadiumi Ruzhdi Bizhuta, Elbasan, Albania
Kick off time: 19:45 hrs BST
Game week two of UEFA Euro qualifiers is underway and in Group I, top placed side Denmark will be welcomed by Albania, who are currently placed at second position. With both tied at three points each, this match will certainly be a fierce competition for the top spot.
Albania form: W-W-L-L-W
Sailing in a sea of confidence, Albania are going to enter the match in high spirits. They began their campaign in the qualifiers by defeating the much superior Portugal in their own backyard in the presence of some 23,000 fans with the final score of 1-0. This was their second victory in a row, previous one coming with 3-0 against San Marino in a friendly encounter, in June this year.
Prior to these two wins, the host nation had endured a couple of defeats in a row. They came at the hands of Romania and Hungary, with the final scores on both occasions being 1-0.
Denmark form: W-L-W-D-L
The champions of the Euro 1992 have been experiencing ups and downs in their performance off lately. However, they did begin their bid to qualify for the main event for the second time in a row, on a winning note, outclassing Armenia with 2-1.
Prior to this, they have won only match out of their previous four encounters, which isn’t in line with the performance of the Danes. The victory came against Sweden with 1-0 this May. They suffered their most recent defeat right before kick starting their campaign here, by Turkey with 2-1.
Key Players
Albania: Hamdi Salihi
With 48 caps and 11 goals for his nation, the 30 year old striker can prove to be a potential threat. He definitely will be looking to make his debut in the event on a terrific note.
Denmark: Nicklas Bendtner
Currently the highest goal scorer for Denmark with 24 goals, Bendtner is certainly a player who will be targeted by the Albanian defenders. Having provided a crucial assist for the winning goal in his last match, the 26 year old Dane will definitely be the man to watch out for.
Betting Advice
Denmark have won on three occasions against Albania and drew once, which points to a Danish win – which is at 2.25 with bet365. Over 2.5 goals in this game is at 2.5 with William Hill.