Portugal thrashed by Denmark in first Nations League match without Ronaldo

Portugal’s UEFA Nations League campaign suffered its first setback as Denmark secured a convincing 4-1 victory at the Braga Municipal Stadium on Saturday.

Pierre-Emile Højbjerg gave Denmark the lead from the penalty spot three minutes before half-time after Portugal defender Ruben Dias was penalised for handball.

Rasmus Højlund then took control of the match after the interval, scoring twice in seven minutes. The former Manchester United striker levelled the quality of the performance with a superb volley four minutes after the restart before producing another fine finish in the 57th minute.

Joachim Andersen headed Denmark’s fourth goal in the 75th minute, leaving Portugal with no prospect of recovering. Bernardo Silva scored a late consolation in the fourth minute of stoppage time, finishing from close range after Joao Neves’ effort had been saved.

The defeat came in Portugal’s first competitive fixture since Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football last week. His former team-mates marked the occasion before kick-off by walking on to the pitch wearing Ronaldo shirts in tribute to their long-serving captain.

That gesture was not followed by an inspiring display, with Portugal unable to build on their perfect start to the competition. They had won their opening four UEFA Nations League matches before Denmark ended that run.

Despite the defeat, Portugal remain top of Group D on 12 points from five matches. Denmark moved into second place with nine points, while Norway have six and Wales three.

Portugal will attempt to respond when they face Wales on Tuesday. Denmark’s victory keeps the group finely balanced behind the leaders, but Portugal’s advantage has been reduced after their first loss of the campaign.