Portugal beat Denmark 4-2 as Ronaldo walkout controversy hangs over Nations League clash

COPENHAGEN, Oct 2 — Portugal triumphed over Denmark 4-2 in a UEFA Nations League match, despite the distraction caused by Cristiano Ronaldo’s abrupt withdrawal from the team’s training camp. Joao Felix sealed the victory late in the second half following Portugal’s two previous comebacks. Coach Jorge Jesus had emphasized the importance of focusing on the game, disregarding the controversy surrounding Ronaldo’s decision to skip training.

Ronaldo, Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer, had spent the entire match on the bench and had announced his intention to leave the national team in an Instagram post earlier in the week. Coach Jesus indicated that the team would discuss the situation following the match. Portugal’s Joao Cancelo opened the scoring in the 13th minute, and Mikkel Damsgaard equalized for Denmark shortly after.

Goncalo Ramos retook the lead for Portugal in the 34th minute with a precise shot. Rasmus Hojlund scored for Denmark in the second half, but Vitinha provided an assist for Portugal, and substitute Joao Felix sealed the win with a goal in the 57th minute, giving new coach Jesus his third win in his first three matches.