Danish national football team coach Brian Riemer is giving his players a unique opportunity to compete for starting positions in an internal match. The coach will evaluate two evenly matched teams playing against each other using the same tactics.

Riemer emphasizes that this 11-on-11 training exercise is a rare opportunity due to the usual constraints of national team camps, where physical considerations and match-specific training take precedence.

The coach stated that this setup allows him to assess all players simultaneously, which he considers a valuable asset. He clarified that the teams are mixed, not divided into A and B squads, but strategically assembled to observe specific player combinations in different areas of the field.

While the team will initially train against tactics mirroring their upcoming opponent, Northern Ireland, the session will culminate in a direct competition between two Danish teams. Riemer acknowledged having a preliminary plan for Saturday’s test match but indicated that the internal match could influence his final decisions.

Riemer is sending a clear message to the players that their performance in training can directly impact their chances of making the team. He asserted that past experience is not a deciding factor, emphasizing that current performance will be the key criterion.

Despite having an initial lineup in mind for the game against Northern Ireland, Riemer remains open to adjustments based on what he observes during training. He has intentionally kept the starting lineup unannounced, reinforcing the idea that places are still up for grabs.

The team’s ability to conduct a full 11-on-11 match is facilitated by the fact that all 20 outfield players and three goalkeepers are currently healthy.

The team has experienced positive and productive training sessions, and minor issues like bruises and bumps are not preventing anyone from participating. Denmark is set to play Northern Ireland on Saturday and Lithuania on Tuesday.