The Danish football under-21 national team will face stiff opposition at the European Championship in Poland next year.
The Danes were seeded second after going unbeaten through qualification, but were unlucky in the final draw in Krakow, getting arguably the toughest three teams possible in Germany, Italy and Czech Republic.
The four teams will make up Group C with all three of Denmark’s opposition having previously won the tournament (Italy five time, the Czechs twice and Germany once).
In it to win it
But Denmark recently drew Italy 0-0 away in a friendly and Denmark’s coach Niels Frederiksen doesn’t see Group A as standing out in particular.
“It’s a tough group, but I don’t think it’s more difficult that the other two groups,” said Frederiksen.
“I won’t agree that it is the strongest group, because Group B with Portugal and Spain isn’t easy, and neither is Group A with hosts Poland, England and Sweden.”
And after accumulating 28 points out of a possible 30 during qualification, Frederiksen said his team is going to Poland to win, although the initial goal is to reach the semis.
Hosts Poland are in Group A with Slovakia, England and reigning champions Sweden, while Group B consists of Portugal, Serbia, Spain and Macedonia.
The three group winners qualify for the semi-finals, as does the best second-placed team. The tournament will kick off on June 16, and the final will be played on June 30 in Krakow.
