Portugal humbled by Denmark in first major test after Ronaldo's retirement

14.11.26 FT UEFA Nations League A

Portugal

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Denmark

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Denmark ended Portugal's 14-match unbeaten run in competitive home internationals with a stunning victory in UEFA Nations League, handing Jorge Jesus his first defeat and inflicting the hosts' heaviest-ever competitive home loss.

Portugal entered the match after winning their previous three games without Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently announced his international retirement after 234 appearances and 146 goals.

However, the hosts struggled to impose themselves against a confident Danish side. Rasmus Hojlund thought he had opened the scoring before half-time, but the goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up.

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The breakthrough eventually came through a penalty after Ruben Dias handled Hojlund's header. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg converted following a VAR review to give Denmark the lead.

Hojlund inspires Denmark's second-half demolition

Denmark doubled their advantage five minutes after the restart when Hojlund volleyed home Mikkel Damsgaard's cross at the far post.

Portugal attempted to respond through Ruben Neves, whose long-range effort was saved by Mads Hermansen, but Denmark continued to punish their defensive weaknesses.

Hojlund made it 3-0 with his fifth goal in as many Nations League matches, shifting the ball onto his right foot before firing past Diogo Costa.

Joachim Andersen then headed home Denmark's fourth from a set piece, leaving Portugal facing a humiliating defeat.

Bernardo Silva pulled one back after Joao Neves' initial effort was saved, but it proved little more than a consolation.

Portugal face pressure ahead of final group fixture

The defeat ended Portugal's run of 13 wins and one draw in their previous 14 competitive home matches.

Despite the setback, Portugal had already secured qualification for the Nations League finals. However, they will need a result against Wales in their final group fixture to finish top.

Denmark, meanwhile, strengthened their position in second place and head into their potentially decisive meeting with Norway on Tuesday with a three-point advantage.

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Related teams and leagues

Portugal

Denmark

UEFA Nations League A