(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-02-18 11:37

BRUSSELS - Denmark retained men's title at the European Badminton Teams Championships in the central Dutch city of Almere on Sunday by whitewashing England 3-0.

The reigning champions Denmark, led by world No. 5 Kenneth Jonassen and No. 8 Peter Gade, were in super form against England, whose strength lies in doubles.

Jonassen opened the account for Denmark with a perfect 21-7, 21-13 victory over England's Andrew Smith.

England had hopes of leveling the score at 1-1 after No. 1 pair Anthony Clark and Robert Blair won the first set 21-13 against Martin Lundgaard and Jens Eriksen. But the Danish pair rallied to win the last two sets 21-19, 21-14 in a match lasting 49 minutes.

In the third match, Gade completed a perfect day for the Nordic powerhouse, winning in straight games, 21-10, 21-7, against England 's Rajiv Ouseph.

Earlier Sunday, Germany beat Poland 3-1 to win the third place of men's competition.

In women's competition, Denmark were also crowned European champions after defeating hosts and reigning champions Holland 3-1. Germany overcame Scotland 3-1 to win the third place.

The Almere tournament kicked off on Tuesday. It also served as a European qualifying event for the world teams championships.

The top three teams in both the women's and men's competition have earned tickets to the final stages of the world championships scheduled for May in Jakarta, Indonesia.