Denmark vs Tunisia: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head

The European nation open their World Cup campaign against the African nation at lunchtime at Education City Stadium

Denmark will be eager to replicate their Euro 2020 run and, perhaps, reach the competition's final stage; they had a great run and demonstrated courage and resilience despite the absence of their star player. They are a side to watch in this World Cup as they are regarded as one of the tournament's dark horses, having won 2-0 against France in their previous match. 

Meanwhile, Tunisia, who have been absent from the tournament for a long time, will not have it easy. They face a difficult challenge, but their current form says otherwise, with one loss in their last nine matches, Tunisia are here for the business and will be mentally prepared to create issues for the Danes.

Kick off: 6: 30 (IST), 1 pm (GMT).

Denmark form (all competition): W-L-W-L-W

Tunisia form (all competition): W-L-W-W-W

Player to watch

Christian Eriksen

With his pinpoint crosses, the midfielder will attempt to pull all the threads from midfield and enable the squad surge forward. Eriksen's redemption since the incident has been remarkable, and the player has picked up the pace quite well; at United, he has found his form, and his talents will aid his national team.

Issam Jebali

Despite not scoring many goals, Issam's presence has always given the club an advantage up front, as his vision and taking on defenders creates space for the team to establish the rhythm of the game. And he'll be facing a high-pressing team of Denmark, and his poise on the ball will help him avoid the opposition's pressure.

Injury and Team news

Denmark's sole injury concern was Andreas Christensen, who recovered in time, and Jonas Wind, who missed Wolfsburg's game, is fit to play in this encounter.

Ellyes Skhiri of Tunisia suffered a cheekbone fracture but rehabilitated in time in late October. Although Omar Rekik will be unable to compete due to a muscular injury sustained in late October.

Predicted Lineup

Denmark predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)

Schmeichel; Wass, Kjaer, A Christensen, Maehle; Hojbjerg, Delaney; Skov Olsen, Eriksen, Lindstrom; Dolberg.

Tunisia predicted lineup (4-3-3)

Dahmen; Drager, Talbi, Bronn, Abdi; Laidouni, Skhiri, Chaalali; Ben Slimane, Msakni, Khazri.

Head-to-Head stats

This will be the first encounter between the two nations.

Denmark vs Wales: Prediction

Denmark's qualification to Qatar was smooth, as they went undefeated and conceded no goals. And they want to continue this when they face Tunisia, with the nation appearing more than cohesive and a more balanced squad ready to overcome any challenge.

Considering Tunisia have been dominant with eight clean sheets, it will be a difficult contest. Although Tunisia lacks the cutting-edge upfront that Denmark can leverage.

Prediction: Denmark 2 - 0 Tunisia