Czechia have qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 20 years after defeating Denmark on penalties in their play-off final in Prague.
Denmark endured a costly shootout, missing the target with two spot-kicks and seeing another saved. Rasmus Hojlund, on loan at Napoli from Manchester United, was among those to miss, striking the bar with his effort.
Christian Eriksen was the only Denmark player to convert from the spot, while Tomas Chory, Tomas Soucek and Michal Sadilek all scored for the Czech Republic. Ladislav Krejci was the only player to miss for the hosts.
Czechia made a fast start, taking the lead in the third minute through Pavel Sulc, who rifled a powerful strike into the net from the edge of the area after a partially cleared corner.
The early goal set the tone for an open contest, with both sides creating chances throughout the first half. Denmark pushed for an equaliser, working the ball into dangerous areas for Hojlund, while the hosts continued to threaten going forward.
After the break, Denmark took control, forcing the Czechia to sit deep under sustained pressure. Their persistence paid off when Joachim Andersen headed in a Mikkel Damsgaard free-kick to level the score.
The Czechia remained organised and compact, limiting Denmark’s opportunities despite the pressure. In extra time, the hosts regained the lead as Krejci’s effort deflected off Denmark defender Alexander Bah and into the net.
Denmark responded again in the 111th minute, with substitute Kasper Hogh glancing a header into the top corner to force penalties.
However, their shootout struggles proved decisive, allowing the Czechia to seal qualification and return to the World Cup for the first time since 2006.
The defeat means Denmark will miss out on the tournament for the first time since 2014.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
Follow us on:
