Best Odds: 2/5
Bookmaker:
Getting their Nations League adventure back underway on Saturday night, Spain will welcome Denmark to the Estadio Enrique Roca.
Spain
Starting with the hosts, making real history over the summer as they were crowned European champions, Spain are in the midst of what has become a sensational fairytale. Making real history on July 14th as they secured a famous 2-1 victory against England in Berlin, La Roja have only continued to shine since their EURO 24 success over the summer. Last seen laying down a real Nations League marker on September 8th as they stormed their way to a 4-1 romp away at Switzerland, Luis de la Fuente’s men find the mood in their camp at a red-hot high. Already pencilled in as a standout contender to defend their Nations League crown, Spain have now won nine of their previous 10 appearances across all competitions. It should also be highlighted, La Roja have not suffered a competitive defeat on home soil since way back in September 2021.
Team News
Undergoing knee surgery last weekend and not expected to feature over the remainder of the season, Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has withdrawn from Spain’s squad. Likewise, suffering a hamstring injury against Alaves last weekend, Barcelona forward Ferran Torres has also dropped out of La Roja’s roster.
Having to make some late alterations, de la Fuente has called up both Bryan Zaragoza and Bryan Gil as cover. Overcoming a shoulder injury last month and making his Arsenal debut, Mikel Merino has been included in Spain’s squad and could earn a 29th international cap here.
Denmark
As for the visitors, enduring what was a real EURO 24 struggle over the summer as they failed to win any of their four showdowns in Germany, Denmark certainly struggled to find any positives on the major tournament stage. However, despite getting a new era underway following their downbeat European adventure, Saturday’s guests have claimed a major Nations League boost since getting proceedings underway last month. Opening their League A campaign with back-to-back 2-0 victories against Switzerland and Serbia respectively, the Danes have also registered consecutive competitive clean sheets for the first time over the past 13 months. However, more than aware that they face a monumental challenge this weekend, Denmark couldn’t have asked for a tougher test when they arrive at the Estadio Enrique Roca on Saturday night.
Team News
Marking his return from a muscle injury and opening his account away at Porto last week, Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund has been included in Denmark’s squad. Likewise, despite failing to get regular minutes at Old Trafford this season, Christian Eriksen should feature on Saturday night and earn a 137th international cap.
Now playing his domestic football with Scottish giants Celtic following a summer switch, ex-Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel will start between the sticks. Former Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg will start at the heart of Denmark’s midfield this weekend.
Key Factors to Consider
