A worrying sickness outbreak has thrown Denmark's preparations for their decisive World Cup qualification showdown with Scotland into chaos, just days before the crucial match at Glasgow's Hampden Park.
Illness Strikes Key Danish Players
The Danish camp has been disrupted by a bug that has already ruled out key defender Joachim Andersen and striker Rasmus Højlund from their recent surprising 0-0 draw with Belarus. A member of the backroom staff has also fallen ill, increasing concerns for head coach Brian Riemer.
Riemer admitted his apprehension about the situation, stating, "Right now we have Joachim Andersen, who is sick, and we have Højlund, who is sick, and a staff member who is sick." He confirmed the team doctor is managing the situation, but acknowledged the inherent risk of further spread within the squad ahead of Tuesday's high-stakes encounter.
A Tense Finale in Group C
The illness comes at the worst possible time for the Danes, who need only a draw to secure their place in the World Cup. Scotland, trailing by a single point, must win to qualify for their first World Cup finals since 1998.
Scotland's own 3-2 loss to Greece on Saturday was rendered immaterial by Denmark's stumble against Belarus, setting up a dramatic winner-takes-all finale in Glasgow. The stage is set for one of the most significant matches at Hampden Park in years.
Clarke Calls for Hampden Roar
Meanwhile, Scotland manager Steve Clarke has issued a rallying cry to the home supporters, urging them to play their part in creating a historic night. "We need positive backing," Clarke said. "One of my favourite sayings for the players is, play with the anticipation of success and not the fear of failure. I'm going to ask the Hampden crowd to do that on Tuesday night."
He emphasised the need for patience and unwavering support, especially during difficult moments in the game, believing that with the crowd behind them, his team can achieve something special and end a 26-year World Cup drought.
All eyes will now be on the fitness of the Danish squad as kick-off approaches, with the health of two key players potentially deciding the fate of both nations' World Cup dreams.
