Denmark toast milestone with Cyprus success

Denmark were able to mark their 100th UEFA European Championship qualifier with victory as they overcame Cyprus 2-0 in Copenhagen.

Morten Olsen's side were on top throughout, but the contest was still goalless at the break and it needed second-half strikes from substitute Morten Rasmussen – who scored within three minutes of his introduction – and Kasper Lorentzen to secure the win. Following Friday's 3-1 loss to Portugal, Denmark now possess six points from three outings in Group H, while Cyprus are languishing on one.

Chances came and went for the hosts in the opening 45 minutes, with Daniel Agger spurning the first opportunity when he headed over from close range early on. Soon after, Nicklas Pedersen also missed the target and the same player then had his shot saved by visiting goalkeeper Antonis Georgallides. The Cyprus No1 was in action again midway through the half, denying Michael Krohn-Dehli who had found space in the area.

Agger and Krohn-Dehli both passed up decent chances before the interval, when Olsen decided to shake things up by bringing on Rasmussen. It did not take long for the 1. FSV Mainz 05 forward to make his mark as he converted Lars Jacobsen's cross from the right on 48 minutes. The goal sparked Cyprus into life, but it was still the home side creating the danger, with Rasmussen soon going close again with a back-heel and Pedersen failing to keep another effort down.

Denmark were pressing to finish the job and, after Simon Kjær threatened with a header, Rasmussen nearly pounced following a Georgallides save. However, with nine minutes remaining, they finally put the outcome beyond reach, Lorentzen hammering in a left-footed shot from just outside the area.