Denmark, Euro 1992 champions and 2022 World Cup quarter-final contenders, failed to qualify for FIFA 2026 — a significant disappointment for a squad widely considered good enough to compete at the tournament. Christian Eriksen's remarkable return from cardiac arrest at Euro 2020 continues to inspire, but the team fell short in the tightly-contested UEFA qualifying rounds.
| Appearances | 6 |
| Best Finish | Quarter-finals (1998, 2002) |
| Last Appearance | 2022 (group stage) |
| 2022 Result | Eliminated in group stage despite strong pre-tournament expectations |
Christian Eriksen's story — returning to professional football after cardiac arrest at Euro 2020 — remains one of sport's most inspirational narratives. Despite his quality and that of teammates including Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and Rasmus Højlund, Denmark's collective output fell short in qualifying.
Denmark's non-qualification for FIFA 2026 came as a genuine surprise given their squad quality and positive 2022 World Cup group-stage performances. A combination of draws in crucial qualifying matches, an inability to convert chances at key moments, and an increasingly competitive UEFA qualifying landscape meant Denmark fell just short of the playoff positions needed. The failure will prompt significant reflection on the squad's transition, particularly around Christian Eriksen's eventual international retirement and the next generation's readiness to step up.
Denmark fans can follow Rasmus Højlund closely during the tournament — Manchester United's young striker competes at club level against several FIFA 2026 nations' players, providing an indirect tournament connection. Group A's opening fixture featuring South Korea and Mexico also features familiar Danish-league talent on opposing sides.
Follow FIFA 2026 on T Sports and Sony Sports in Bangladesh. Christian Eriksen's club career at Manchester United continues regardless of the national team's absence.