Denmark Defeats Portugal 4-1 in Nations League Match Marked by Ronaldo Tribute
Portugal faced a challenging start to their UEFA Nations League campaign, suffering a 4-1 defeat against Denmark in their first match since Cristiano Ronaldo’s retirement from international football. The clash took place in Braga, where former Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund shone, scoring two goals to secure Denmark’s victory.
Ronaldo, who announced his international retirement last week, leaves behind a legacy of 146 goals in 234 appearances, both world records, along with five Ballon d’Or awards. Despite his departure, Portugal’s coach Jorge Jesus indicated that Ronaldo would have been selected for the Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales.
The iconic player left the Portugal squad in September after being informed he would start on the bench against Denmark. This decision led to a £215 fine and a 30-day suspension. As a tribute to Ronaldo, all players and mascots entered the field wearing ‘Ronaldo 7’ shirts. Fans displayed messages celebrating his legacy, including ‘Ronaldo’ spelled out in one stand and ‘GOAT’ (Greatest Of All Time) in another.
Denmark took control late in the first half when Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg converted a penalty following a handball by Ruben Dias. The second half saw Hojlund score twice within eight minutes, extending Denmark’s lead, and Joachim Andersen added a fourth goal in the 75th minute, leaving Portugal trailing 4-0.
Portugal managed to score a consolation goal in injury time as Bernardo Silva found the net after a close-range attempt, but it was too late to change the outcome. Portugal previously secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals by winning their first four matches and now faces a crucial game against Wales on Tuesday, November 17, where avoiding defeat will be essential to remain group winners. Denmark, meanwhile, will host Norway, sitting three points clear in second place.
