Denmark Thrash Portugal 4-1 in First Match Since Ronaldo’s Retirement

Posted : 15 November 2026

Portugal suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Denmark in their UEFA Nations League League A Group 4 encounter on Saturday, November 14, 2026. The match at the Estádio Municipal de Braga was Portugal’s first since Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football.

The occasion began with an emotional tribute to the former captain. Every Portugal player and mascot walked onto the pitch wearing a shirt bearing Ronaldo’s name and number seven.

Supporters also displayed his name in the stands, alongside the letters “GOAT”. A message thanking the legendary forward appeared on the stadium scoreboard in the seventh minute.

Ronaldo ended his international career with 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. Both figures are world records in men's international football. He made his debut in 2003 and won five Ballon d'Or awards during his career.

However, the celebrations were overshadowed by Denmark’s impressive performance. The visitors took control shortly before half-time when Pierre-Emile Højbjerg converted a penalty in the 43rd minute.

The penalty followed a handball decision against Portugal defender Rúben Dias after Rasmus Højlund’s header struck his arm. Højbjerg stepped forward and sent the ball past goalkeeper Diogo Costa to give Denmark a 1-0 lead at the break.

Denmark increased their advantage four minutes into the second half. Højlund finished a delivery from Mikkel Damsgaard in the 49th minute to make it 2-0.

The Napoli striker struck again in the 57th minute. He received the ball, moved past Renato Veiga and fired into the bottom corner to complete his brace and put Denmark firmly in control.

Defender Joachim Andersen added Denmark’s fourth goal in the 75th minute. He rose to meet a cross from Mathias Jensen and headed the ball beyond Costa.

Portugal managed a late response through Bernardo Silva. The Real Madrid midfielder scored in the third minute of added time after João Neves was denied by Denmark goalkeeper Mads Hermansen.

The defeat ended Portugal’s perfect start to the group stage after four consecutive victories. They remain top of Group A4 with 12 points, three ahead of Denmark, who moved to nine points.

Portugal have already secured qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals. However, they must avoid defeat against Wales in Cardiff on Tuesday, November 17, to guarantee top spot in the group.

Denmark will host Norway on the same day, knowing that another positive result could strengthen their chances of reaching the quarter-finals.

The result gives Denmark renewed confidence ahead of the final group fixture, while Portugal will be looking to recover from a difficult night following the departure of their most celebrated international player.

Denmark Thrash Portugal 4-1 in First Match Since Ronaldo’s Retirement

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