Injury Doubt: Denmark Could Be Without Harder for Italy World Cup Decider

Coach considers options as Harder’s Italy availability in question  

Denmark’s Pernille Harder is a doubt for Saturday’s vital World Cup qualifier against Italy at Parken after a head collision in Sweden win.

Harder doubtful for vital Italy clash after leaving Sweden win with ice pack...

Bayern Munich forward Pernille Harder is a doubt for Denmark ahead of a crucial World Cup qualifier against Italy at Parken Stadium on Saturday, after a head collision during the 2-1 victory over Sweden in Gothenburg.

Denmark’s win in Sweden came at a cost, with Harder forced off after an hour following the collision and later seen with an ice pack on her nose.

“For now, things are going well, and she is following the plan in terms of getting ready, but when there is such a short distance between the matches, it is about taking it day by day, and it will be a decision right up to the deadline,” says national team coach Jakob Michelsen. 

SEJR I GÖTEBORG!

Janni Thomsen scorer til 2-1 og aftenens kamp ender med en sejr til Danmark efter 90 intense minutter! Vi tager derfor 3 point med videre 👏 pic.twitter.com/qlWYy8T9aB

— Fodboldlandsholdene 🇩🇰 (@dbulandshold) April 14, 2026

But now another key World Cup qualifier looms, with the Danes set to host Italy in Copenhagen on Saturday afternoon.

“We hope she will be ready and able to start the match. And if not, then it is our task to find the best possible alternative,” says Jakob Michelsen.

Uncertainty over Pernille Harder has naturally forced the national coach to consider other options, though he admits Denmark have no one of Harder’s quality.