Denmark will "struggle" if Australia can stop Christian Eriksen at the World Cup and William Kvist's injury is a blow, according to Michael Jakobsen.
Eriksen is undoubtedly his nation's key player and the Tottenham star set up Yussuf Poulsen's goal in his side's 1-0 win over Peru in their Group C opener.
"If they can eliminate him from the game, Denmark will struggle," he told Omnisport.
"He is the key to the majority of the offensive part."
Jakobsen also pinpointed Pione Sisto as a key for Denmark, saying the Celta Vigo attacker could be a "massive threat".
Rejsedag. Velankommet til Samara June 19, 2018
However, Jakobsen noted that the loss of midfielder Kvist – who broke his ribs against Peru – is a hindrance to how Denmark want to play.
"They don't have anybody who can go into that position and fill it like he does," the five-time Denmark international said, having suggested Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen could move into midfield.
"He's not the best with the ball and he plays a lot backwards and sideways, but in the defensive organisation, he's very good to cover the back line."
Jakobsen believes France – who beat Australia 2-1 in their opening game – will win all three of their group matches.
As for whether Denmark would finish second, the 32-year-old said: "I was convinced before the tournament started, but I'm not that convinced anymore."
