Denmark 2-1 Northern Ireland: We showed a lot of character in defeat – Michael O’Neill

The friendly in Copenhagen, and Iceland’s visit to Windsor Park on Tuesday are the final two qualifiers before Northern Ireland begin their World Cup qualifying campaign in September.

They start their bid in Luxembourg and Germany, and also face Slovakia in Group A.

O’Neill said his side “got off to a good start” in Denmark and defended well, but struggled to keep hold of possession and that pressure only intensified in the second half as Denmark dominated the ball.

“It’s a very young team against an experienced team,” O’Neill added, as his 26-strong squad only contained one player over the age of 30 in the form of substitute George Saville.

“Physically it was tough at times for us but overall we got what we wanted out of the game.

“The most important thing, as I said before this, is the players come away realising we’re going to have to play games of this nature in Slovakia, Luxembourg and Germany as well.”