By Daniel Oriloye - The first half was largely controlled by Denmark but still fairly quiet in both boxes.
Ryan was forced into a stop after souttar turned Maehle's cross toward his own goal, but the goalkeeper reacted well to save with his feet.
Australia did manage three ahots on target in the first period, but all attempt weee tame and comfortable for Schmeichel to save.
Australia started the second period and were rewarded as leckie put them in the lead by nutmegging Maehle on his own way to finding the bottom right corner.
Denmark were poor in the second half and could not trouble Ryan at all as Australia win 1- 0 to progress to the knockout rounder.
The win means Australia qualify for the knockout stages of a world cup for just the second time while Denmark are now winless in their last six world cup matches.
Australia will now face the winners of Group C in the next round.