Riemer eyes ‘extraordinary’ World Cup berth as Denmark face Czech set-piece test

Riemer eyes ‘extraordinary’ World Cup berth as Denmark face Czech set-piece test

The Danes carry momentum into the play-off final after a 4-0 triumph over North Macedonia in the semi-final.

Denmark
Denmark coach Brian Riemer (right) and Rasmus Hojlund attend a press meet in Prague before a World Cup play-off against Czech Republic. (EPA Images pic)
PRAGUE:
Denmark coach Brian Riemer described Tuesday’s high-stakes clash against the Czech Republic as the most significant fixture of his managerial career, with a victory booking a ticket to the upcoming World Cup.

The match in Prague will determine if Denmark clinch a third consecutive World Cup appearance. The Danes enter the final in high spirits after a 4-0 victory over North Macedonia in Thursday’s play-off semi-final.

“Reaching a World Cup finals is something special and unique. It is an extraordinary experience that a manager might only encounter once in their career,” Riemer told reporters on Monday.

However, Riemer was wary of the Czech threat from set-pieces with their attack led by striker Patrik Schick.

“We have prepared for it and analysed them. We have great faith in our players, and set-pieces are also part of their daily routine at their clubs. However, we are aware that set-pieces are a major strength for the Czech Republic,” he said.

Striker Rasmus Hojlund was confident of his teammates rising to the occasion.

“It is probably one of the biggest games I have played in my career so far,” he told reporters.

“I am not exactly ancient yet, but I have still played a fair number of matches at a high level. There have been nerves, but it is about turning that into something positive.”

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