One of the pre-World Cup 2022 favourites, Denmark, were held to a humbling 0-0 draw with Tunisia in their opening match.

Denmark and Tunisia had chances to win the contest, and both sides had goals ruled out by VAR for offside. Andreas Cornelius also missed a glorious opportunity for the Danes late on, and the sides shared the points.

The stalemate leaves Kasper Hjulmand’s side with a tough test against France in their upcoming fixture. Denmark needs a win or draw to keep their qualification chances well and truly alive. 

But can the Danes recover from their disappointing start in Group D to take on a challenging French side?

Overall, Denmark produced a disjointed performance against Tunisia on Tuesday. Denmark’s creative players like Christian Eriksen were contained by Tunisia. 

In addition, Denmark rarely threatened throughout the match. Despite having 61% possession and five shots on target, Tunisia comfortably held the Danes.

When the chances did come, there was no conviction or ruthlessness. Eriksen’s second-half snapshot was easily palmed away by Tunisia goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen. Then, Andreas Cornelius had the best chance of the match, a free header from a yard out that struck the post. 

Hjulmand’s side looked less together and off the pace, compared to the team that scored 31 goals in World Cup qualifying.

However, the clean sheet and control of possession will give Denmark some positives heading into the France contest on Saturday, November 26. 

Hjulmand’s side may have to rethink their approach to set up in a more counter-attacking style to contain a French side that put four past Australia in a comfortable 4-1 win on Tuesday. 

Ultimately, the change in approach could suit the Danish side that beat twice in the last two meetings in the 2022/23 Nations League earlier this year.