In five of the recent 15 matches, the Danes fell behind within the first fifteen minutes and consequently, made things far too difficult for themselves against opponents such as Belarus, Scotland, the Czech Republic, Norway, and Portugal.

Unfortunately, the 2–4 defeat to the latter suggests a pattern.

"Portugal's first goal was reminiscent of Norway's first goal, and it really annoys me that we’re conceding goals like that. It’s an error that’s easily avoidable," says Joachim Andersen in reference to Portugal's opening goal after Denmark lost possession just outside their own penalty area to bt.dk

"You just have to kick the ball the hell away instead of trying to play it out two or three times."

That is why the Premier League player is calling for something specific from the national team.

"We could be a bit smarter at times about committing fouls higher up the pitch. Be a bit more cynical," he says.

"We have to be willing to take a yellow card now and then. When you're playing man-to-man, you don't always win your duels. So you have to commit a foul to allow the team to drop back and regroup."

Denmark fell behind after 13 minutes against Portugal managed to restore parity ten minutes later. However, only two minutes later Denmark conceded once again.

Denmark will face Wales in Cardiff on Sunday at 20.45 CET.