Denmark thrash Portugal 4-1 in first match after Ronaldo’s retirement

Portugal’s first international outing following Cristiano Ronaldo’s retirement ended in a heavy 4-1 defeat to Denmark, with Rasmus Højlund scoring twice to spoil the start of the country’s new chapter.

The defeat at the Estádio Municipal de Braga offered an early test for Portugal as they adjust to life without their long-serving captain, whose 23-year international career ended after 234 appearances and a record 146 goals.

Denmark took control of the encounter shortly before half-time when Pierre-Emile Højbjerg converted a penalty after Portugal defender Rúben Dias was penalised for handball.

The visitors carried their advantage into the second half and extended it four minutes after the restart. Højlund finished a well-worked move, connecting with Mikkel Damsgaard’s pass to make it 2-0.

The Danish striker struck again before the hour mark, showing composure to get past Renato Veiga before placing the ball into the bottom corner.

Joachim Andersen added a fourth in the 75th minute, rising to head home Mathias Jensen’s delivery as Denmark capitalised on Portugal’s defensive struggles.

Bernardo Silva scored a late consolation for the hosts in the 93rd minute, converting a rebound, but it did little to change the outcome.

The result marked a difficult beginning to Portugal’s first match without Ronaldo, who captained the country to the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League trophies.

His departure leaves a significant leadership gap for the national team, although Portugal still have several established players capable of shaping its next phase, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leão, João Félix and Gonçalo Ramos.

However, the challenge extends beyond finding another prolific goalscorer. Ronaldo’s influence on the team, his leadership and the expectations built around his presence will be difficult to replace.

Portugal had already secured qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals after winning their previous four group matches, meaning the defeat did not undo their progress in the competition.

For Denmark, the emphatic victory was a statement of intent as they pursue a place in the knockout stages.

While Ronaldo’s international legacy remains central to Portuguese football, the defeat underlined the work ahead for the team as it seeks to establish an identity beyond its former captain.