Group E: Denmark v Japan preview

Denmark coach Morten Olsen is hoping for some traditional 'Danish dynamite' from his team's attack in Thursday's decisive Group E clash with Japan.

Olsen, who captained Denmark when they made their impressive 'dynamic' debut at the World Cup finals in 1986, acknowledged Japan are well-organised and difficult opponents but said his side will treat the game as if it was a final.

"It is a decisive game, hopefully the first final for us," said the 60-year-old. "We know what we have to do -- that is the name of the game. We just have to be confident."

After one win and one defeat each in their opening games, both nations are level on three points. For Japan, a draw would take them through to the second round for the second time, but for Denmark it would signal elimination.

Olsen said he had respect for Japan's resilience and spirit, developed under coach Takeshi Okada, who is in charge at a World Cup for the second time after leading them in France in 1998, and expected a tight contest.

"They have a good group of players who are fighting for their country. They are proud to play for Japan," he said. "They have a good coach who has a good knowledge of football. It won't be easy, but we have to break them down."