COPENHAGEN — Denmark failed to break through some stubborn defending by Ireland in a lacklustre 0-0 draw in the first leg of their World Cup playoff on Saturday. Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph was forced to make two good saves in the first half but was protected well after halftime, with Denmark star Christian Eriksen kept quiet at Parken Stadium. The second leg is in Dublin on Tuesday, when Denmark will look to clinch a place in its first major tournament since 2012. Ireland last played at a World Cup in 2002 and is featuring in its ninth playoff for a major tournament. The Danes had 68 per cent possession and made nearly four times as many passes, but ran out of ideas in the second half.

Source: National Post November 11, 2017 21:44 UTC