Portugal suffered a disappointing defeat in their first match since Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football, as former Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund scored twice to inspire Denmark to an emphatic victory.
Ronaldo, 41, made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, setting world records in both categories. Since making his international debut in 2003, he also won the Ballon d’Or five times.
The legendary forward announced his retirement from international football in a video shared on social media last week. However, coach Jorge Jesus later revealed that Ronaldo would have been selected for the Uefa Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Wales.
Ronaldo had earlier left Portugal’s camp in September after learning that he would not feature in the starting lineup for their first meeting with Denmark, an incident that resulted in a £215 fine and a 30-day suspension.
Saturday’s encounter, played in Braga, was marked by emotional tributes from Portuguese players and supporters in honour of the departing captain.
Players and mascots entered the pitch wearing shirts bearing Ronaldo’s name and number seven, while fans displayed his name and the inscription ‘GOAT’ (Greatest Of All Time) across the stands.
A banner carrying the message ‘Thank You, Captain’ was also displayed, with a similar tribute appearing on the stadium scoreboard in the seventh minute.
However, the celebrations were overshadowed by Denmark’s dominant performance, which saw the visitors secure a comfortable victory.
Former Southampton and Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg opened the scoring shortly before half-time, converting a penalty after Ruben Dias was penalised for handball.
Hojlund, who currently plays for Italian side Napoli, added two goals within eight minutes early in the second half, before Fulham defender Joachim Andersen headed home Denmark’s fourth goal in the 75th minute.
Portugal managed a late consolation through Bernardo Silva, who finished from close range in the third minute of added time after Joao Neves’ effort was saved.
Despite the defeat, Portugal had already secured qualification for the quarter-finals after winning their opening four Nations League matches. They must avoid defeat against Wales in Cardiff on Tuesday, November 17, to finish as group winners.
Denmark, meanwhile, will host Norway on Tuesday, holding a three-point advantage in second place.
