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Ronaldo Absent but Unmissed as Portugal Triumph 4-2 Over Denmark

Joao Cancelo and his Portugal teammates celebrate after scoring again Denmark

Key Takeaways:

  • Portugal registered a 4-2 win against Denmark in Copenhagen to maintain their perfect UEFA Nations League Group A4 record
  • Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, and Joao Felix twice scored for Portugal
  • The Selecao have now suffered just one defeat in their last 13 matches (W9, D3)

Match Overview

Portugal upheld their dominant form in Group A4 of the UEFA Nations League with a commanding 4-2 victory over Denmark in Copenhagen. The performance extended the Selecao’s strong run, leaving them with only a single defeat in their past 13 games, comprising nine wins and three draws. The visitors delivered a convincing display to quash any doubts over their unity after Cristiano Ronaldo left the team’s camp.

First-Half Action: Early Blows Exchanged

The Portuguese side demonstrated their intent early on, with Goncalo Ramos narrowly missing the target before contributing to a precise move involving Joao Cancelo. Cancelo exploited a gap in Denmark’s defence, slotting the ball calmly past Mads Hermansen to open the scoring in the first quarter-hour.

Denmark responded swiftly in the 23rd minute. Joakim Maehle’s cross was met in the penalty area by Mikel Damsgaard, who struck a curling effort beyond the reach of Diogo Costa to level proceedings. However, Portugal regained their advantage almost immediately, with Bruno Fernandes providing an assist for Ramos, who finished confidently with a low drive past Hermansen for his second international goal in four days.

Denmark’s Second-Half Resistance

As the second half commenced, Denmark pushed forward and were rewarded with another equaliser in the 53rd minute. Damsgaard played a key role, releasing Rasmus Hojlund, who exhibited composure to chip an audacious finish over Costa and marked the moment with Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic celebration.

Galvanised by conceding again, Portugal returned to their attacking style. Ramos fired over from a promising position, and Ruben Neves saw his shot saved by Hermansen, but the visitors maintained pressure.

Portugal Secure Victory in Closing Stages

Portugal reclaimed the lead for a third time in the 67th minute, as Vitinha rose in the box to head in from a trademark Fernandes delivery, illustrating Fernandes’ influence throughout the tie. The away side, twice having relinquished their cushion, managed the closing phases more effectively, utilising substitutions including Joao Neves and Joao Felix for fresh legs.

Joao Felix capped off the night in style, tucking away a decisive finish from Diogo Dalot’s assist to round off the scoring. The win ensured Portugal remain at the summit of Group A4, boasting three victories from as many matches played.

TeamScoreGoal scorers
Denmark2Mikel Damsgaard (23′), Rasmus Hojlund (53′)
Portugal4Joao Cancelo (13′), Goncalo Ramos (26′), Vitinha (67′), Joao Felix (87′)

Statistics & Player Accolades

Portugal’s consistent form on the road was reaffirmed, adding to a sequence that has seen them victorious in five of their previous seven away fixtures.

Group A4 Standings Impact

By securing a third consecutive win, Portugal cemented their status as leaders in Group A4 of the UEFA Nations League. Selecao’s tactical discipline and attacking prowess were underscored, even in the absence of their iconic forward, while Denmark’s spirited response ultimately fell short against the clinical visitors.


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