Denmark boss responds to England’s game plan to thwart superstar Pernille Harder

27 July 2023 , 09:43

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Denmark head coach Lars Sondergaard gives a press conference at Sydney Football Stadium (Image: Getty Images)

Denmark aim to ruin England’s game plan to cancel superstar Pernille Harder.

The Scandinavians are well aware that the former Chelsea star will be the main focus of Sarina Wiegman’s defenders. England's Lionesses are making their final preparations ahead of their second Women's World Cup Group D match on Friday.

The two sides are equal on points and goals going into the game, both having won 1-0 in their tournament opening ties, yet Denmark pose an arguably a stronger threat for England courtesy of forward Harder.

Alex Greenwood said that the Lionesses would be prepared for the striker - and had some inside knowledge from fellow Blues Millie Bright and Jess Carter.

But the Danes plan to keep England guessing. Boss Lars Sondergaard said: “This is not a matter of where Pernille plays - it’s the team - it’s where she is best for us. This can vary, depending on the opponent.

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“She’s very good in most positions that she’s put in - and she works very hard - no matter where.

“We may also change things like we did against China. I think that was a good option.

Pernille Harder celebrates after scoring against China

“We started her as a nine, she became a ten, we got an extra player up front, it gives us options.”

Harder said that she was happy to do what’s best for the team and said that the plan is to keep England guessing.

She said: “I just want to be involved. I’m more involved if I’m not a nine but I’ll do what’s best for the team. But we can make changes throughout the match, that’s for sure.”

Sondergaard painted a picture of Denmark being the rank outsiders. He added: “Sometimes when you enter a match you are underdogs and you need to perform well against a superpower such as England.

“It’s easier said than done but there’s a World Cup every four years. You don’t get many of these opportunities. It would be a mortal sin not to enjoy it.”

Neil Moxley