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Ronaldo-less Portugal thrashed 4-1 by Denmark
Published : Sunday, 15 November, 2026 at 8:25 AM
Observer Online Report
Portugal suffered a heavy defeat in their first match since Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football, losing 4-1 to Denmark.
Former Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund scored twice as Denmark secured a convincing victory over the Portuguese side.
The 41-year-old Ronaldo made his international debut in 2003 and went on to play 234 matches for Portugal, scoring 146 goals. He holds the world records for most international appearances and goals by a men's national team player. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner announced his retirement from international football in a video message posted on social media last week.
However, Portugal coach Jorge Jesus had earlier said he planned to include Ronaldo in the UEFA Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales. In September, Ronaldo had left Portugal's training camp after learning that he would not be included in the starting XI for the first match against Denmark. The incident reportedly resulted in a £215 fine and a 30-day suspension.
Portugal paid tribute to Ronaldo ahead of Saturday's (November 14) match in Braga. Players and mascots wore jerseys bearing the name ‘Ronaldo 7’ as they entered the pitch. Supporters displayed ‘Ronaldo’ and ‘GOAT’ (Greatest of All Time) across different sections of the stands. A banner reading ‘Thank You, Captain’ was also displayed. A similar tribute appeared on the stadium scoreboard in the seventh minute.
Despite the emotional tribute, Denmark dominated proceedings on the pitch.
Former Southampton and Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg opened the scoring from the penalty spot late in the first half after Rúben Dias was penalised for handball.
Napoli striker Rasmus Højlund then scored twice within eight minutes early in the second half. Joachim Andersen added a fourth in the 75th minute with a header to put Denmark 4-0 ahead.
Bernardo Silva pulled one back for Portugal in the third minute of stoppage time, finishing from close range after João Neves' return pass. However, the goal could not prevent Portugal's heavy defeat.
Portugal had won their first four matches in the Nations League, securing a place in the quarter-finals. However, the race to finish top of the group has now become more competitive, making their upcoming match against Wales crucial.
Portugal will face Wales in Cardiff on November 17. They must avoid defeat to secure top spot in the group.
Meanwhile, Denmark, who sit second in the group, three points behind Portugal, will host Norway next Tuesday.
-MT
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, 01550707296
E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]. [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], Online-email: [email protected]
