Eriksen electrifies in serving Danish pasting in Dublin

DUBLIN - Christian Eriksen's magnificent hat-trick inspired Denmark to a 5-1 demolition of the Republic of Ireland in Tuesday's second leg of their World Cup playoff in Dublin to clinch a spot in next year's finals.

Following Saturday's stalemate in Copenhagen, Ireland got its home leg off to the perfect start when Shane Duffy headed it into the lead after only six minutes, but Denmark struck twice before the break and three more in the second half to seal its place in Russia.

"It is an incredible feeling. We have been fighting for so long to get to the World Cup. We are very much looking forward to it," said Tottenham star Eriksen.