Portugal begin post-Ronaldo era with 4-2 Nations League win in Denmark

Portugal overcame the sudden departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to beat Denmark 4-2 at Parken in Copenhagen on Thursday, strengthening their position at the top of their UEFA Nations League group.

The match was Portugal’s first serious test since Ronaldo left camp on Wednesday following his well-known disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus over his non-selection against Norway. Under pressure to show they could continue without their captain, Portugal produced a confident performance despite a dramatic and entertaining contest.

The victory gives Portugal nine points from three matches and leaves them close to securing progress to the next round. Denmark remain second on goal difference despite a -1 record, having scored six and conceded seven. Norway are third, while Wales occupy bottom place.

Portugal made the faster start and took the lead when Joao Cancelo finished superbly. Denmark responded through Mikkel Damsgaard, who converted after an excellent move created by the impressive Mohammed Daramy.

The hosts did not enjoy parity for long. Goncalo Ramos, selected as Ronaldo’s direct replacement in the starting line-up, restored Portugal’s advantage before half-time. Portugal had the greater share of possession and looked the more threatening side, although Denmark continued to pose a danger through their attacking players.

Bruno Fernandes came close to extending the lead soon after the interval, but Denmark’s goalkeeper made an excellent save. The home side punished that missed opportunity when Rasmus Højlund finished a quick counter-attack, with Damsgaard providing the assist.

Højlund celebrated by performing Ronaldo’s trademark “Siiiu” celebration, provoking a strong reaction from the Parken crowd and adding another layer to a match dominated by the former Portugal captain’s absence.

Denmark then pushed hard for a first lead and Gustav Isaksen missed a clear opportunity. Portugal relied increasingly on rapid counter-attacks led by Fernandes and Rafael Leao. Just as the home side appeared closest to scoring again, Vitinha put Portugal back in front with his first international goal following another swift move.

Portugal introduced Trincao as they sought to increase the attacking pressure, while Ramos went close to adding another when his powerful effort struck a defender. Denmark continued to threaten in the final stages, forcing Portugal to defend deep.

The increasingly tense match also saw Daramy booked for a late challenge on Fernandes. Ruben Neves later escaped a red card after a heavy tackle was reviewed by VAR; the referee retained the yellow card, without being called to the monitor.

Portugal made a double substitution, sending on Joao Neves and Joao Felix for Pedro Neto and Ramos. Felix made the decisive impact in the 87th minute, finishing a classic counter-attack to seal a 4-2 victory and score for the third consecutive match.

The result marked a significant statement from Portugal, who began the post-Ronaldo era with an important away win despite the turmoil surrounding their camp.