Denmark finally found a way through in Wales on Sunday night, with Rasmus Højlund converting a late penalty to settle a tense Nations League contest that had long belonged to Danny Ward.
The Welsh goalkeeper had resisted sustained Danish pressure and produced a series of outstanding saves, but his costly mistake in the 73rd minute changed the match. Ward misplaced a clearance directly to Gustav Isaksen, then brought down the Danish forward as he tried to recover the situation.
Højlund stepped up two minutes later and scored from the spot for the only goal of the game. The Napoli striker now has three goals in four Nations League appearances.
Ward’s saves undone by one error
Wales had relied heavily on Ward as Denmark controlled much of the match. The Wrexham goalkeeper first denied Højlund from close range shortly after the interval, getting enough on the striker’s deflected effort in the 50th minute.
Six minutes later, he was again decisive, pushing Isaksen’s dangerous header onto his right-hand post. Those interventions kept Wales level, until the failed restart and subsequent foul handed Denmark their opportunity.
Denmark strengthen second place
The result allows Denmark to move further clear in second place in the group, although they remain six points behind leaders Portugal.
There was one concern for the visitors, however, as Pierre-Emile Højbjerg was forced off through injury during the match.
