Portugal should answer.
A magnificent first-foot performance in Copenhagen saw him falling 1–0 for Denmark in his UEFA Nations League quarter-finals. Rasmas Hoslund’s late Lakshya has left Roberto Martinez’s side with a margin for an error in Sunday’s return leg in Lisbon.
Cristiano Ronaldo has called fans to rally behind the team“Yesterday, I am calling fans to stay with us. Let them give us their strength,” he urged. Portugal’s all -time top scorer knows what is at stake.
The first leg was a disappointing night. Portugal struggled to break a disciplined Danish side and lacked sharpness in the attack. When Christian Ericasen first missed the half penalty, he was lucky to be uncontrolled, but his luck ran away when Hoslund was killed late.
The celebration of Manchester United Forward imitated Ronaldo’s trademark trick, However, he later clarified that this was a tribute“He is my idol,” said Hojland. There was no issue from Ronaldo. “For me, it’s an honor,” he replied, before connecting with a smile, “but I hope he can see my celebration tomorrow.”
Portugal is under pressure to answer. His defeat for Denmark was his first since his defeat was out of 2024, but he has won only one in his last four matches. The nation is expected to compete for the League title, an initial exit will be a significant blow for the 2019 champion.
Denmark will not make it easy. His victory at Copenhagen ended the four-game winning run, and he showed that he could disappoint Portugal. If they score in the lisbon, the host will require at least three goals to move forward.
Ronaldo is defective. He admitted that Portugal was reduced in the first phase – “I didn’t play at all, the team did not play at all” – but insisted that there was no need to panic. “I know that there are many people who want we get lost, but if we are united and good energy, I am sure we will get a great result.”
The Alvled crowd will expect a response. Portugal has the talent to turn this tie around, but they have to prove that they are still among the elite of Europe. If not, the questions about their future will only grow loud.
