Denmark capitalized on Portugal's transitional moment to earn a commanding victory in Braga, led by Rasmus Hojlund's second-half brace. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Joachim Andersen added a header, leaving Bernardo Silva's late effort as mere consolation. Prior to kickoff, Portugal held pre-match tributes for Ronaldo, who concluded his career holding world records with 146 goals across 234 caps. The outcome leaves the Danes in prime position to advance to the Nations League quarterfinals.
Key points
Denmark needs only a draw against Norway on Tuesday to confirm their spot in the Nations…: Denmark needs only a draw against Norway on Tuesday to confirm their spot in the Nations League quarterfinals.
Portugal suffered their first loss of the group campaign after winning their initial four…: Portugal suffered their first loss of the group campaign after winning their initial four matches and securing quarterfinal qualification.
Norway kept their own quarterfinal hopes alive by defeating Wales 3-1, which simultaneous…: Norway kept their own quarterfinal hopes alive by defeating Wales 3-1, which simultaneously confirmed a last-place finish for the Welsh side.
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Rasmus Hojlund stars with brace as Denmark close in on a spot in the Nations League quarterfinals.
Portugal have been hammered 1-4 by Denmark, an embarrassing Nations League defeat in their first match without Cristiano Ronaldo, following the superstar forward’s retirement from international football.
Rasmus Hojlund starred with a superb brace on Saturday as Denmark moved into second place in Group A4 and closed in on a spot in the quarterfinals with a brilliant display in Braga.
The Danes are on nine points from five fixtures, three behind Portugal, who were already sure of qualification for the last eight having won all four of their previous group fixtures.
A draw against third-placed Norway on Tuesday, 3-1 winners over Wales earlier, will see Denmark through.
Ahead of kickoff, Portugal paid tribute to Ronaldo, who announced his exit from the international game last week, with the team and mascots walking out wearing Ronaldo’s number seven and his name on their jerseys.
Fans held up a huge banner that read “Thank you, captain” as the teams entered the field, while applause rolled around…
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