Portugal Beat Denmark 4-2 as Jorge Jesus Insists Squad Remains United

Portugal extended their flawless UEFA Nations League run with a 4-2 win over Denmark in Copenhagen, responding strongly after Cristiano Ronaldo left the squad on Wednesday. Manager Jorge Jesus said the result and performance showed that the national side remains together ahead of Sunday’s home match against Norway.

Portugal maintain perfect Nations League record

The victory over Denmark came after a turbulent week in the Portugal camp. Ronaldo departed shortly after Jesus confirmed that the 41-year-old would again begin the match among the substitutes.

Portugal nevertheless delivered a commanding display, scoring four times to preserve their 100 per cent record in the competition. Jesus insisted that the events surrounding the former captain had not affected the unity of his players.

• Portugal defeated Denmark 4-2 in Copenhagen.
• The result kept Jesus’ side perfect in the UEFA Nations League.
• Ronaldo left the camp on Wednesday after being told he would not start for a second straight game.
• Portugal return home to face Norway at the Dragao stadium on Sunday.

Jesus focuses on squad unity

Jesus rejected the idea that Ronaldo’s exit could undermine his standing within the dressing room, stressing that his attention was on the group’s work and the quality of the Denmark result.

“There is no reason for the group not to be with me,” Jesus said. “I understand why the question is asked, but what matters is what we need to do. What happens around us does not divide the group. It has not divided us and it will not divide us.

“It was a very good win: four goals and a high-level performance. That cannot be ignored. It matters more than everything else that has happened, and that is where I want the focus to be. When we go back to Portugal, the people will get behind the team at the Dragao.”

Ramos repays manager’s faith

Goncalo Ramos retained his place in the attack after replacing Ronaldo in the previous starting line-up, and the AC Milan forward made another decisive contribution against Denmark.

Ramos created Joao Cancelo’s opening goal before adding a goal of his own, his second in as many matches. He said the players were benefiting from the clarity provided by Jesus since the manager’s arrival.

“The new coach has been an enormous help, especially,” Ramos said. “Our ideas are clearer and we know where every teammate should be, in defence as well as attack.

“That was visible today and in the other recent games. We are getting better every day and it is part of a process. We are very pleased with the victory, again against a strong opponent.”

Norway next at the Dragao

Portugal now have the chance to carry that momentum into their next Nations League fixture, when Norway visit the Dragao on Sunday. Jesus will seek another cohesive performance as his side aim to protect their perfect start on home soil.