Jennifer Stewart – USA Today Sports

Denmark have their backs against the wall and they will need to be at their best if they want to get a much-needed victory against a quality Italian side that has already clinched their berth in Brazil.

Denmark are sitting third with 12 points after eight games and they are one point behind a Bulgarian side that will go against Armenia. Italy, on the other hand, already qualified for the World Cup next year as they have 20 points in eight matches.

Despite the fact that they don’t have the potent squad they used to possess only a few years ago, Denmark still have some important players that should strike some fear against Italy. The hosts will be led by experienced winger Dennis Rommedahl who, at age 36, is still a skillful player that can cause more than a headache when on his game.

Italy, on the other hand, will have several players under the watch, but no one will be more analyzed than Giuseppe Rossi. The Fiorentina striker returns to Gli Azzurri after a prolonged absence due to injuries, and he will be pressured to show manager Cesare Prandelli that he deserves a spot in the 23-men roster for next year’s World Cup.

Prediction: Denmark 1-2 Italy

Denmark will constantly attack, but Italy’s defensive line will be at their best as they will only concede a late goal. The visitors will have few chances, but they will make the best of them against a defensive line that has already allowed four goals against Armenia earlier this year.

Juan Pablo Aravena is a soccer writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @jparavenarant or add him to your network on Google