Denmark’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has plunged the national team into a period of transition, ending a decade-long run of appearances at major tournaments and raising questions over the direction of its ageing squad.

Denmark enter period of transition after missing 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the biggest edition ever with 48 teams, three host nations, and a global stage built for drama. Yet, for all the excitement, the tournament will be missing some of football’s traditional heavyweights. Five giants, five nations with pedigree, history and global fan bases, have failed to qualify.

Top five giants who will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Italy failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup as a play-off defeat on penalties to Bosnia and Hercegovina on Tuesday meant the Azzurri will not go to this year's tournament in North America, while Turkey, the Czech Republic and Sweden all secured their places at the finals.

Italy again miss out on World Cup as Bosnia, Turkey, Czechs and Sweden qualify

Michal Sadilek's penalty sent the Czech Republic to the World Cup as they beat Denmark in a shootout in Prague on Tuesday following a 2-2 draw after extra time.

Czech Republic stun Denmark to book spot in Bafana's World Cup group

Denmark coach Brian Riemer described Tuesday's high-stakes clash against the Czech Republic as the most significant fixture of his managerial career, with a victory booking a ticket to the upcoming World Cup.

Riemer eyes 'extraordinary' World Cup berth as Denmark face Czech test

Czech Republic manager Miroslav Koubek hailed his side's penalty shootout win over Ireland as a show of great mentality, but wants more composure in their World Cup playoff final against a very different Denmark side.

Czech coach hails character, but wants more composure against Denmark

Four-time World Cup winners Italy will face Northern Ireland in the semifinals of the European playoffs for the 2026 tournament, following the draw on Thursday.

Italy to face N Ireland in 2026 World Cup playoffs

Danish fans and media were tearing their hair out after the national side fumbled the chance of direct qualification for next year's World Cup with poor performances against Belarus and Scotland and a further nightmare might await in the playoffs.

Danes dreading playoff draw after World Cup qualifying debacle

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Highlights from the match between Denmark and Spain which took place in at Telia Parken, Copenhagen.

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Highlights from the match between Switzerland and Denmark which took place at Kybunpark

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Highlights from the match between Spain and Denmark which took place at Estadio Enrique Roca de Murcia

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Highlights from the match between Denmark and Serbia which took place in Parken Stadium, Copenhagen.

Denmark v Serbia | Match Highlights | UEFA Nations League

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