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Denmark rises to Nations League's top rung with victory over Wales

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Denmark is heading into the Nations League's elite tier following an impressive 2-1 win over Wales on Friday.

Gareth Bale rounded goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and finished after 89 minutes, but his goal proved to be only a consolation following beautiful efforts from Nicolai Jorgensen and Martin Braithwaite earlier in the Cardiff clash.

The result also confirmed the Republic of Ireland's demotion into Nations League C, while Wales remains in the competition's second rung.

Wales had a brave showing during the opening half, but James Chester and Bale both missed headers to put the Dragons into the lead. The host's attacking movement was good, but not as slick as Denmark's counter-attack which led to Jorgensen's opener.

Mike Egerton - PA Images / PA Images / Getty

A loose touch from Tom Lawrence on the edge of Denmark's 18-yard box allowed Yussuf Poulsen to begin a move that saw possession quickly swap between himself, Jorgensen, Thomas Delaney, and return back to its source. Poulsen instantly flicked the ball over Wales' backline when Delaney gave it to him, and Jorgensen scampered after the leather spheroid before sending a ruthless finish between Wayne Hennessey's legs.

Early in the second half, Chester was forced off with an ailment and replaced by talented youngster Ethan Ampadu. Paul Dummett suffered the same fate in the first stanza, with Chris Gunter called in for his joint-record 92nd cap in his stead. Just like in the previous Nations League showdown with Ireland, injuries depleted Wales.

For the majority of the second half, Denmark had an element of control over Wales, reducing the Dragons to nothing more than half chances. The tie was put out of Wales' reach when Braithwaite bashed in an unstoppable volley, meaning Bale's tally 84 seconds later following a superb first touch was a mere footnote.

Although the group is effectively wrapped up with Denmark's promotion and Ireland's relegation, the two teams must complete the formality of meeting in Aarhus on Monday.

A day later Wales travels to Elbasan to take on Albania in a friendly.

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