Denmark finish preparations with big Turkey win

UEFA European Under-21 Championship hosts Denmark finished their preparations for the finals with a resounding 4-0 victory against a Turkey B side.

Keld Bordinggaard's outfit did the damage in the first half, with their enthusiasm and sharp attacking play proving too much for the visitors in Vejle. Mathias Zanka Jørgensen put his team in front in the ninth minute before Nicki Bille Nielsen struck twice before half-time. Veysel Sarı's own goal a minute after the interval rounded off the scoring.

Coach Bordinggaard had said beforehand that he was only sure of six or seven of the starting lineup for Denmark's opening game against Switzerland on Saturday. Perhaps sensing a last chance to impress, his players were fast out of the blocks and it was no surprise when FC København centre-back Zanka burst into the area to give his side the lead.

Denmark made it two after 20 minutes when Bille opened his account for the night, finishing a fine move. The Villarreal CF forward was a constant nuisance for the Turkey back line and doubled his tally six minutes before the break. He took advantage of a defensive mix-up, as a mistimed clearance landed at his feet and left him with the simple task of tapping in.

The hosts were creating plenty of chances and made it four soon after the restart. Kasper Povlsen sprinted down the right and lifted a deep cross which caused Veysel, under pressure from Nicolai Jørgensen, to put through his own net. Turkey mounted a few attacks of their own, but the pattern largely remained the same as Denmark – despite making a raft of changes – continued to dominate. Although there was no further scoring, Bordinggard's team will be happy with a morale-boosting win ahead of their Group A opener in Aalborg.