Denmark have beaten Malta 6-0 in their World Cup qualifier this evening but have missed out on a place in the playoffs.

Morten Rasmussen gave the home side the perfect start in the eighth minute when he followed up his own headed effort that had been saved by Malta keeper Justin Haber.

The hosts doubled their advantage less than three minutes later, when Daniel Agger calmly slotted home a penalty kick, after Peter Ankersen was brought down.

Christian Eriksen had a great chance to further extend the Danes' lead when played through on goal, but a last-ditch challenge saw his effort deflect wide.

Denmark were in complete control and added their third goal of the game in the 28th minute through Andreas Bjelland, who rose unmarked at the back post to head home Ankersen's delivery.

Clayton Failla came closest for the home side with a long-range effort that Kasper Schmeichel had to push over.

The home side were then awarded another penalty after Larsen was fouled and Agger stepped up to score his second of the night.

In the second half, Rasmussen slotted home his second from close range and Nicki Nielsen added the home side's sixth goal, but despite finishing second in their group, their 16 points are not good enough for a playoff place.