The European Under-17 Championship is set to kick off with an exciting match between Denmark U17s and Wales U17s on Monday, May 20, 2024, at the Dasaki Stadium in Achna, Cyprus.
Both teams will be eager to start their tournament journey with a victory, setting the stage for a competitive and thrilling encounter.
Current Form
Denmark
Denmark U17s come into this tournament with a solid track record, making their seventh appearance at the European Under-17 Championship.
They secured their place by topping Group 6 in the elite qualifying round, following a goalless draw with Turkey and victories over Serbia and Georgia.
Denmark's previous performance in the 2022 championship saw them advance past the group stage before being knocked out in the quarter-finals by Serbia.
This time, Denmark aims to reach at least the semi-finals, a feat they have achieved three times in their history, including a memorable run in 2011.
Wales
Wales U17s are making their second consecutive appearance in the European Under-17 Championship.
Their inaugural participation last year ended at the group stage, but they have shown significant improvement this year. Wales finished second in their elite qualifying group, securing victories against Romania and Bulgaria.
The Welsh team is determined to make history by progressing to the knockout rounds for the first time.
Team News
Denmark Team News
Denmark's lineup is expected to feature FC Copenhagen goalkeeper Tobia Breum-Harild, with Philip Sondergaard and Noah Markmann anchoring the defence.
Oliver Hojer, who scored a hat-trick against Georgia in March, will be a key player in midfield, while Arsenal forward Chidozie Obi, with 32 goals in the Under-18 Premier League, will lead the attack.
Wales Team News
Wales will likely start Coventry City's Luis Lines in goal, with Rhys Morrish and Charlie Walker-Smith in central defence.
Brayden Clarke and Jac Thomas are expected to play as full-backs. Elliot Myles, who was Wales' top scorer in qualifying, will be a crucial attacking threat.
Prediction
Both teams are expected to put up a strong fight, but Denmark's superior form and depth of talent give them a slight edge.
We're predicting that Denmark U17s secure a narrow 2-1 victory over Wales U17s, leveraging their experience and quality to kick off their tournament campaign with a win.
FAQ
When and where is the Denmark U17s vs Wales U17s match taking place? The match is scheduled for Monday, May 20, 2024, at the Dasaki Stadium in Achna, Cyprus.
What is the significance of this match? This match marks the beginning of the European Under-17 Championship campaign for both Denmark U17s and Wales U17s. Both teams will be eager to start the tournament with a victory.
How did Denmark U17s qualify for the tournament? Denmark U17s qualified by topping Group 6 in the elite qualifying round. They played a goalless draw with Turkey and secured wins over Serbia and Georgia to ensure their spot in the tournament.
How did Wales U17s qualify for the tournament? Wales U17s finished second in their elite qualifying group, with victories against Romania and Bulgaria securing their place in the European Under-17 Championship.
How has Denmark U17s performed in past tournaments? Denmark U17s have made seven appearances in the European Under-17 Championship. They progressed past the group stage in their most recent appearance in 2022, ultimately losing in the quarter-finals to Serbia. Denmark aims to reach at least the semi-finals this time around.
How has Wales U17s performed in past tournaments? Wales U17s are making their second consecutive appearance in the tournament. Last year, they did not advance past the group stage, but they are aiming to make history by progressing to the knockout rounds for the first time this year.
Who are the key players to watch for Denmark U17s? Key players for Denmark include FC Copenhagen goalkeeper Tobia Breum-Harild, defenders Philip Sondergaard and Noah Markmann, midfielder Oliver Hojer, and forward Chidozie Obi, who has scored 32 goals in the Under-18 Premier League.
Who are the key players to watch for Wales U17s? For Wales, key players include goalkeeper Luis Lines from Coventry City, defenders Rhys Morrish and Charlie Walker-Smith, full-backs Brayden Clarke and Jac Thomas, and top scorer Elliot Myles.
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