Heading into the break, the team from Funen trailed by just two goals, but six unanswered goals from Esbjerg shifted the match's momentum. From that point on, Odense collapsed.
Things had actually started quite well for the Funen side. In the first half, there was no sign that these two league heavyweights needed to settle in following the summer break.
Instead, it was evident that Esbjerg and Odense are the two teams which the rest of the women's domestic league will be chasing this season.
There were few technical errors, and the attacking play at both ends was impressive. Even so, one player rose above the rest: Esbjerg star Henny Reistad.
She was unstoppable in one-on-one situations and served as the offensive focal point for the West Jutland side. Esbjerg held the lead at halftime, largely thanks to her eight goals.
Odense saved the errors that had been scarce in the first half for the final 30 minutes.
Suddenly, the Funen team committed a flurry of technical errors in attack. Esbjerg punished them instantly every time it happened.
Odense’s set-play attack completely lacked rhythm. This was reflected on the scoreboard, where Esbjerg’s lead stretched to ten goals with fifteen minutes remaining.
The Funen side managed to stem the tide slightly, but couldn't prevent their season opener from ending in a crushing defeat.