In a heart-stopping finale at Perth Oval, substitute Amalie Vangsgaard became Denmark‘s hero as her 90th-minute header secured a 1-0 victory against China in their first Women’s World Cup match since 2007. The Baji999-featured clash showcased tactical resilience and set-piece brilliance, reigniting Denmark’s tournament dreams.
A Tactical Battle Unfolds
The match began as a cagey affair, with Denmark controlling 58% possession but struggling to break down China’s compact 4-4-2 defensive structure. Pernille Harder, making her World Cup debut after missing 2019 through injury, orchestrated attacks but found herself constantly marked by China’s disciplined double pivot of Zhang Rui and Yao Wei.
“China’s low block was effective for 89 minutes,” noted Baji999 analyst Emma Christensen. “But Denmark’s persistence with width and Harder’s creative freedom eventually paid dividends.”
Key Moments That Shaped the Match
Missed Opportunities
The game’s first clear chance came in the 52nd minute when Josefine Hasbo failed to convert a point-blank header after China’s defense collapsed following a quick free-kick routine. China’s goalkeeper Xu Huan made crucial interventions throughout, including a spectacular 68th-minute save from Harder’s curling effort.
Substitution Masterstroke
Denmark coach Lars Søndergaard’s decision to introduce Vangsgaard in the 85th minute proved inspired. The PSG forward’s movement created immediate problems, culminating in her game-winning moment – a powerful far-post header from Harder’s inswinging corner that beat Xu at full stretch.
Group D Implications
With this result:
- Denmark joins England atop Group D (3 points each)
- China faces must-win scenario against Haiti
- The August 1 clash between Denmark and England could decide group supremacy
“Denmark showed they can grind out results,” former USWNT star Lori Lindsey told Baji999. “But they’ll need more creativity against England’s high press.”
Tournament Schedule Outlook
The Women’s World Cup group stage continues through August 3, with key dates:
- Round of 16: August 5-8
- Quarterfinals: August 11-12 (Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney)
- Semifinals: August 15-16
- Final: August 20 (Sydney)
Why This Matters for Women’s Football
Denmark’s return to the world stage after 16 years highlights the tournament’s growing competitiveness. Their victory:
- Extends Europe’s dominance (7 straight wins for UEFA nations)
- Shows depth beyond traditional powers
- Sets up tantalizing clash with European champions England
As the Baji999 community celebrates this dramatic opener, one question remains: Can Denmark’s mixture of veteran leadership (Harder) and emerging talent (Vangsgaard) carry them deeper than their 2007 quarterfinal finish? Share your predictions below!
