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

Portugal overcame the upheaval surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from camp to beat Denmark 4-2 at Parken in Copenhagen and maintain their perfect start to the Nations League on Thursday.

The victory, secured in the third round of the group stage, gives Portugal nine points from three matches and strengthens their position at the top of the table as they close in on qualification for the next round.

Ronaldo left the squad unexpectedly on Wednesday after his well-publicised disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus over his omission from the team to face Norway. Portugal therefore arrived under intense pressure to show they could continue without their long-serving captain.

Joao Cancelo put the visitors ahead early, finishing with a composed touch after Portugal had started at a high tempo. Denmark levelled through Mikkel Damsgaard, who converted a flowing move created by the lively Mohamed Daramy.

Portugal restored their advantage before half-time through Goncalo Ramos, who started as Ronaldo’s direct replacement in the line-up. They held a narrow edge in possession and attacking threat during an entertaining first half, although Denmark also created openings through their attacking players.

Bruno Fernandes was denied by a fine save shortly after the interval when Portugal had a chance to extend their lead. Denmark quickly punished that miss as Rasmus Hojlund finished a well-organised counter-attack set up by Damsgaard.

Hojlund celebrated by copying Ronaldo’s trademark “Siuuu” celebration, a gesture that drew a strong response from the Parken crowd and appeared aimed at the Portuguese visitors.

Denmark then pushed forward in search of a third goal, with substitute Gustav Isaksen missing a clear opportunity. Portugal looked increasingly reliant on quick breaks led by Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leao, and Vitinha restored their lead when he headed home after another rapid attack. It was his first international goal.

The hosts continued to threaten, while Portugal introduced Trincao to increase their attacking pressure. Ramos came close to scoring again when his powerful effort struck a defender, as Denmark’s defence came under sustained pressure during the final 15 minutes.

There were further tense moments as Daramy was booked for a late challenge on Bruno Fernandes. Portugal also escaped a potentially serious setback when Ruben Neves was shown a yellow card after a heavy tackle following a VAR review. The referee did not change the decision to a red card.

With Denmark pressing for another equaliser, Portugal made a double substitution, sending on Joao Neves and Joao Felix for Pedro Neto and Ramos. The change had an immediate impact: Felix completed a swift counter-attack in the 87th minute to make it 4-2 and end the hosts’ hopes of rescuing a point.

Denmark remain second despite a goal difference of -1, having scored six and conceded seven. Norway are third, with Wales bottom of the group.