Isaksen Brace Fires Denmark into World Cup Play-Off Final

Gustav Isaksen scored twice in quick succession as Denmark produced a dominant second-half display to defeat North Macedonia 4–0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup European play-off semi-final in Copenhagen on Thursday.

The emphatic victory secures Denmark a place in Tuesday’s Path D final, where they will face either the Czech Republic or the Republic of Ireland for a spot at the World Cup.

The winners of the play-off path will be drawn into Group A at the 2026 tournament, alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Africa and South Korea.

After a goalless first half, Denmark found their rhythm following the interval, with Mikkel Damsgaard and Christian Nørgaard also getting on the scoresheet as the hosts pulled clear in convincing fashion.

North Macedonia offered little attacking threat but proved difficult to break down during the opening 45 minutes. However, once Denmark took the lead, the contest quickly turned one-sided, with three goals arriving in the space of 10 minutes to put the tie beyond doubt.

The breakthrough came just four minutes into the second half. Isaksen was initially denied by a crucial defensive challenge, but the loose ball fell kindly for Damsgaard, who calmly slotted into an empty net.

Denmark doubled their advantage in the 58th minute, with Damsgaard turning provider as his precise cross to the back post was expertly guided home by Isaksen.

The winger struck again just a minute later to effectively seal the result. A shot from Victor Froholdt was parried by goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, allowing Isaksen to react quickest and convert the rebound.

Christian Nørgaard completed the scoring with a straightforward finish after meeting a corner from Christian Eriksen at the back post, ensuring a comprehensive victory for the hosts.

Denmark will now turn their attention to the play-off final, as they aim to secure qualification for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.