Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has insisted that he does not miss Cristiano Ronaldo following his side’s heavy defeat in their first match since the legendary forward announced his retirement from international football.
Former Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund scored twice as Denmark recorded a convincing victory over Portugal.
Ronaldo, who made his international debut in 2003, finished his Portugal career with a record 146 goals in 234 appearances, making him the highest-scoring player in men’s international football. The 41-year-old also won the Ballon d’Or five times during his illustrious career.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star announced his international retirement in a social media video last week. However, Jesus later revealed that Ronaldo would have been included in Portugal’s squad for the UEFA Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Wales.
Ronaldo had left Portugal’s training camp in September after reportedly being informed that he would not start the first encounter against Denmark. The incident resulted in a £215 fine and a 30-day suspension.
Saturday’s encounter in Braga provided an opportunity for Portuguese supporters and players to honour the departing captain.
Players and mascots walked onto the pitch wearing shirts bearing Ronaldo’s iconic number seven. Supporters also displayed his name in the upper section of the stands, while the letters ‘GOAT’ (Greatest Of All Time) were formed in the lower tier.
A banner carrying the message ‘Thank You, Captain’ was also displayed, with a similar tribute appearing on the stadium scoreboard in the seventh minute.
However, the emotional atmosphere surrounding Ronaldo’s farewell quickly gave way to disappointment as Denmark dominated proceedings to secure a comfortable victory.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg opened the scoring shortly before half-time, converting from the penalty spot after Portugal defender Ruben Dias was penalised for handball.
Hojlund extended Denmark’s advantage with two goals within eight minutes early in the second half, putting the visitors firmly in control of the contest.
Fulham defender Joachim Andersen added a fourth goal in the 75th minute, further exposing Portugal’s defensive struggles.
Portugal managed to score a consolation goal in the third minute of added time through Bernardo Silva, who finished from close range after João Neves’ initial effort was saved.
Denmark remain second in the standings with a three-point advantage and will return to action on Tuesday when they host Norway.
Speaking after the game, according to Fabrizio Romano, Jorge Jesus was asked if he missed Cristiano Ronaldo.
He said, “Missing what? He’s no longer on the national team, so what’s missing?”
“The only thing missing is his presence here to keep me company.”
UNL: Jorge Jesus speaks on 'missing' Cristiano Ronaldo after 4-1 defeat to Denmark