Nations League: Portugal Edge Denmark 4-2 Despite Ronaldo’s Absence

Portugal secured a 4-2 victory over Denmark in their UEFA Nations League clash on Thursday, maintaining their perfect start to the competition despite the absence of captain Cristiano Ronaldo.

João Cancelo opened the scoring for Portugal in the 13th minute before Denmark responded through Mikkel Damsgaard eight minutes later.

Gonçalo Ramos restored Portugal’s lead in the 25th minute after combining with Bruno Fernandes, sending the visitors into half-time with a 2-1 advantage.

Denmark levelled again eight minutes after the restart when Rasmus Højlund finished over goalkeeper Diogo Costa to make it 2-2.

Portugal responded strongly, with Vitinha putting the visitors ahead again in the 67th minute. João Félix then completed the scoring three minutes from full time, converting a cutback from substitute Diogo Dalot.

Ronaldo was absent after leaving Portugal’s training camp on Wednesday following coach Jorge Jesus’ decision to leave him on the bench for the match. Jesus had also kept Ronaldo as an unused substitute during Portugal’s previous 2-1 victory over Norway.

The win keeps Portugal at the top of their Nations League group after three matches, while Denmark suffered their first defeat of the campaign.

Portugal will now turn their attention to their next Nations League fixture as they continue their title defence.