Australia held Denmark 1-1 in a Group C game here on Thursday to keep alive their chances of making it to the pre-quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup.

Australia, who had lost 1-2 to France in their opening match, got their goal from a penalty conversion by captain Mile Jedinak in the 38th minute after Denmark had taken a 1-0 lead through Christian Eriksen in the seventh minute. 

Earlier in the match, Denmark star player Christian Eriksen linked up well with Nicolai Jorgensen to smash a half-volley past Mat Ryan in the 7th minute, opening up what looked to be a match almost certainly dominated by the Danes, reports Efe. 

But the Aussies struck back earning a penalty when Yussuf Poulsen blocked a cross with his hand, taking a yellow card in the process. 

Mathew Leckie dutifully stepped up to the spot and slotted it to the right-hand-side of the net, sending Kasper Schmeichel the wrong way. 

Australia was quick out the blocks after half-time but failed to cash in on the promise its attacking display showed. 

The game ground to a draw, meaning Denmark head into its final group game with four points while Australia has just one. Denmark finds itself in the second position in Group C and requires a victory in a crucial match against group leaders and tournament favourites France.

Australia, who is now third on the table, require a convincing victory over Peru and also need an assist from France in the final Group C match to have a chance of qualifying for the Roud of 16.