Denmark Coach Compares Hojlund to Haaland

Rasmus Hojlund's impressive form with Denmark led Brian Riemer to compare his striker's importance to the role Erling Haaland plays for Norway.

Hojlund Becomes Denmark's Main Man

Rasmus Hojlund is enjoying one of his best stretches with the Denmark national team, and his performances have now sparked a high-profile comparison. Brian Riemer, head coach of the Danish side, compared his striker's importance to the role Erling Haaland plays for Norway.

The Napoli forward once again proved decisive by scoring the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Wales in Cardiff in the UEFA Nations League. Hojlund stepped up from the penalty spot and converted the kick that ultimately secured all three points for his national team.

His recent form backs up the praise. The 23-year-old striker has scored three goals in his last four matches for Denmark, matching Haaland's recent production.

"Rasmus Hojlund has taken the throne. The Norwegians may not think he's Erling Haaland, but for us, he is," Riemer told TV2 Sport.

His Teammates Are Also Praising His Development

The coach is not the only one impressed by the striker's current level. Rasmus Nissen Kristensen described his teammate as a "monster" and said he is currently playing the best soccer of his career.

According to Kristensen, one of the biggest differences has been Hojlund's ability to bring different aspects of his game together at the international level, something he had previously struggled to do consistently.

His goal against Wales also reflected his growing confidence. Before the penalty, goalkeeper Danny Ward attempted to distract him, but the striker remained composed and converted the opportunity.

Hojlund later explained that he has specifically worked on penalties in training because he wants to take on that responsibility.

Hojlund Embraces a Leadership Role

The goal in Cardiff took Hojlund to 16 goals for Denmark, eight of which have come over the past year. Despite being only 23 years old, the forward believes his experience on major stages has prepared him to become one of the leaders of his national team.

His current form has led Riemer to place the striker in a special category. Not necessarily because he believes Hojlund and Haaland are at the same level, but because he sees both players fulfilling a similar role as the primary attacking figures for their respective national teams.

Key Takeaways

Brian Riemer compared Rasmus Hojlund's importance to that of Erling Haaland.
Hojlund scored the winning goal for Denmark against Wales.
The striker has scored 16 goals for the Danish national team.
Eight of those goals have come over the past year.
Rasmus Nissen Kristensen said Hojlund is playing the best soccer of his career.