Portugal secured a 4-2 victory over Denmark in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday, despite playing without captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who had left the national team camp a day earlier.
Joao Cancelo gave Portugal an early lead at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen before Mikkel Damsgaard equalised for the hosts following a well-worked move involving Mohamed Daramy.
Portugal restored their advantage before half-time through Goncalo Ramos, who started in place of Ronaldo, as the visitors went into the break ahead.
Denmark responded strongly after the restart and drew level when Rasmus Hojlund finished from Damsgaard’s assist.
The forward celebrated by copying Ronaldo’s trademark ‘Siiiu’ celebration.
The hosts then pushed for a third goal, with substitute Gustav Isaksen missing a chance to put Denmark ahead, while Portugal threatened on the counter through Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leao.
Portugal regained the lead when Vitinha finished off a counter-attack, before Joao Felix sealed the victory in the 87th minute after being introduced alongside Joao Neves.
The win keeps Portugal at the top of their group with nine points from three matches, while Denmark remain second despite having a negative goal difference.
Portugal will face Norway in their next Nations League fixture on Sunday, while Denmark take on Wales.
