Introduction
Denmark beat Portugal 4-1 in the UEFA Nations League on Saturday, November 14. The game was played at the Estadio Municipal de Braga in Portugal. It was Portugal’s first game since Cristiano Ronaldo retired from international football. Denmark scored three goals in the second half. The win shocked fans at home and abroad.
What Happened
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg opened the scoring for Denmark in the 43rd minute. He scored from the penalty spot. A penalty is a free shot at goal from 12 yards. Rasmus Hojlund made it 2-0 in the 49th minute. He scored again in the 57th minute. Joachim Andersen made it 4-0 in the 75th minute. Bernardo Silva scored Portugal’s only goal in the third minute of stoppage time. Stoppage time is the extra minutes added at the end of a game. Denmark won 4-1 in front of 24,879 fans. Portugal had more of the ball, with 52 percent of possession. Portugal also had more shots on goal, with eight to Denmark’s six. But Denmark scored four times, and that is what counts.
Why People Are Talking About It
People are talking about this game because Portugal lost badly at home. Portugal were the favorites before the game. They had won four of their five group games. Denmark had lost two of theirs. Fans are also talking about life after Ronaldo. This was Portugal’s first game since their greatest player retired. The team looked lost without him. Hojlund was the star of the night. He scored two goals and led Denmark’s attack. The result puts Denmark right back in the race in Group A4.
What Happens Next
Portugal still lead Group A4 with 12 points. Denmark are second with nine points. Norway have six points, and Wales have three. The group is not over yet. Portugal will try to bounce back in their next game. Denmark will try to keep winning and catch Portugal at the top. Both teams will want to finish first and reach the quarterfinals.
Final Thoughts
This was a night to forget for Portugal. Denmark were sharp, fast and brave. Portugal had the ball more, but Denmark had the goals. The first game after Ronaldo showed how much Portugal must change. Denmark will remember this night for a long time.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Sources: ESPN — Portugal 1-4 Denmark (Nov 14, 2026) Final Score
Photo credit: Rasmus Hojlund celebrating a goal with his teammates, by Locked Down Spectator, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.