Portugal can handle pressure after Ronaldo exit, says Bernardo Silva

Braga, Portugal - Portugal's midfield star Bernardo Silva has stated that his team is capable of handling any additional pressure that may come after Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international football, as they prepare to face Denmark in the Nations League on Saturday. The match will serve as a tribute to Ronaldo, who is Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer with a world record 146 goals in 234 appearances for his country.

Speaking to reporters, Silva admitted that Ronaldo had been the main focus for much of the past two decades, with many fans attending matches specifically to see him play. "The national team players are used to the spotlight, the pressure, and the responsibility, as well as being pointed at when things don't go well," Silva said. "So that's not an issue now."

Real Madrid's Silva will inherit the captain's armband from Ronaldo, who has fallen out with the national team's coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football last week after a 23-year career with the national team.

In preparation for the tribute game against Denmark, the Portuguese squad will walk out wearing number seven jerseys, in honor of Ronaldo's shirt number. While it is unclear whether Ronaldo will be present at the match, his absence is expected to be felt by the team. Jorge Jesus, the Portuguese coach, praised the idea of paying tribute to Ronaldo, recognizing the legend's 23 years of service to Portuguese football.