Despite all the critics, Gareth Southgate has maintained a perfect record in opening matches at major tournaments. His four wins from four are particularly impressive given that England’s previous four opening-game victories at major tournaments were spread over 46 years (1970-2016), spanning the World Cups of 1970, ’82, ’90, and 2006.
Southgate’s performance in matchday two fixtures is less stellar, with most resulting in draws except for the 5-1 win over Panama at the 2018 World Cup. However, this matchup seems ideal for England to secure a spot in the knockout stage with a game to spare and you will find a complete match predictions in our dedicated section. Additionally, to make the most of the many betting markets available, we have crafted a huge 120/1 bet builder.
The bet builder has been placed with BetVictor. If you have yet to try them, click on the banner below to secure a very generous welcome bonus.
Denmark vs England Bet Builder
Under 2.5 Goals
Rationale: The upcoming match between England and Denmark in Euro 2024 promises to be a tightly contested affair. Both teams are under significant pressure, especially Denmark, who are desperate to secure a spot in the next round after a disappointing draw against Slovenia. Historically, Denmark have struggled in major tournaments, as evidenced by their lacklustre performance in the World Cup, where they finished below Australia and Tunisia. This pattern of underachievement suggests that they might not pose a significant threat to England’s robust defence.
England, on the other hand, have displayed a strong defensive record. Their backline, which faced concerns pre-tournament, has held firm, conceding few goals. The match against Denmark is expected to be different from their physical encounter with Serbia, as Denmark rely more on technical and tactical play to challenge defences. However, England’s disciplined defence is well-equipped to handle such an approach.
Given these factors, the expectation is for a low-scoring match. The emphasis will be on maintaining defensive solidity, and with England’s strong defensive record, a bet on under 2.5 goals appears prudent. Denmark’s inability to dominate and England’s focus on defence make a high-scoring game unlikely.
Declan Rice to Deliver an Assist
Rationale: Declan Rice has emerged as a pivotal figure in England’s midfield, particularly noted for his performance against Serbia. Despite the focus on players like Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Rice’s contributions have been crucial. Against Serbia, he completed the most passes (77) and created a clear-cut chance, highlighting his ability to influence the game from a deeper position.
Rice’s role extends beyond just breaking up play; he has evolved into a player capable of contributing to the attack. His Premier League season with Arsenal has seen him involved in 15 goal contributions, showcasing his ability to deliver crucial passes and assists. This evolution in his game makes him a valuable asset in creating scoring opportunities for England.
With much of the attention on England’s frontline, Rice often finds space to operate and make decisive contributions. His vision and passing range are key in unlocking defences, making the 4/1 odds for him to score or assist an attractive proposition. As Denmark will likely focus on marking England’s primary attacking threats, Rice could find himself in a position to provide that crucial assist.
Bukayo Saka to Have 1+ Shot on Target
Rationale: Bukayo Saka has been in exceptional form for both Arsenal and England, demonstrating his ability to be a constant threat in the attacking third. His direct style of play, coupled with his pace and dribbling skills, makes him a formidable opponent for any defence. Saka’s recent performances have shown his capability to cut inside from the wings and create shooting opportunities.
Against Denmark, Saka’s role will be crucial in penetrating the defence and getting into shooting positions. His ability to maneuver past defenders and deliver accurate shots on target makes him a likely candidate to register at least one shot on target during the match. Saka’s knack for finding space and his willingness to take on defenders will ensure he tests the goalkeeper regularly.
Given Denmark’s expected defensive approach, Saka’s skills will be essential in breaking through their lines. His recent form suggests that he will continue to pose a significant threat, making a shot on target from him a highly probable outcome.
Jude Bellingham to Score Anytime
Rationale: Jude Bellingham’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of spectacular. His performances for Real Madrid and England have highlighted his ability to drive forward, create opportunities, and find the back of the net. Bellingham’s sense of timing and his knack for arriving in the box at the right moment make him a constant goal threat.
Bellingham’s role within the team sees him often in advanced positions, ready to capitalise on chances created by his teammates. His recent scoring record, with goals in three of his last five appearances for England, underscores his importance in the attacking setup. Against Denmark, Bellingham’s ability to navigate through the midfield and get into goal-scoring positions will be crucial.
Denmark’s defensive vulnerabilities, highlighted in their recent matches, present Bellingham with the perfect opportunity to add to his tally. His composure and finishing skills make him a prime candidate to score anytime during the match, leveraging the creative support from England’s midfield and forwards.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to Get Carded
Rationale: Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s role as a defensive midfielder often puts him in situations where committing tactical fouls is necessary to break up the opposition’s play. His combative nature and responsibility to disrupt England’s midfield will likely lead to several fouls, increasing the chances of him receiving a yellow card.
Hojbjerg’s task will be to contain England’s dynamic midfielders like Bellingham and Saka, who are known for their quick movements and dribbling skills. This will put Hojbjerg under immense pressure, likely leading to rash challenges and tactical fouls. His track record suggests a propensity for bookings, especially in high-stakes games where controlling the midfield is crucial.
Given the nature of the match and the stakes involved, Hojbjerg’s aggressive style of play is expected to result in a yellow card. His necessity to be the enforcer in Denmark’s midfield makes him a prime candidate for this bet.
Enhance your betting game with our daily free betting tips, predictions, and accumulators.
For more betting tips and news, check out:
Don’t forget to visit our Free Bets page for the best possible value from our Today’s Football Predictions, as well as our Predictions for Tomorrow’s Football Predictions.
Top UK Bookies & Best Sign Up Offers
Subscribe To Our Newsletter For Exclusive Tips
Want to have exclusive tips from experts tipsters delivered right into your inbox? Subscribe Now To Our Newsletter. We will never spam, we fully respect your privacy!
