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Portugal Player Ratings vs Denmark: Bruno Fernandes Leads Selecao to Convincing 4-2 Win

Portugal's Dominant Display in Nations League Triumph Over Denmark

Portugal extended their flawless record in the UEFA Nations League A with a lively 4-2 victory against Denmark at Parken Stadium. Bruno Fernandes orchestrated the win with two key assists, while clinical finishes from Goncalo Ramos and Joao Felix sealed the win for the visitors.

The hosts struck first with Mikkel Damsgaard equalising after Joao Cancelo’s early goal in the 13th minute. Still, Portugal’s technical edge became clear as Ramos restored the lead before halftime, assisted by Fernandes. The second half saw Denmark level through Rasmus Hoejlund, but Portugal responded swiftly with a goal from Vitinha, followed by a late clincher from substitute Joao Felix.

Though Denmark had more possession, Portugal’s sharpness was evident with 10 shots on target and an expected goals (xG) of 2.67, securing their third consecutive group win.

Goalkeeper and Defence

  • Diogo Costa - 6/10: Faced several challenges despite the scoreline. Could not stop close-range strikes but helped break Danish pressure with effective distribution.
  • Joao Cancelo - 8/10: Frequently inverted to overload central areas, scoring the opener. His composure was vital until his 63rd-minute substitution.
  • Ruben Dias - 7/10: Led the defence with solid positioning and physicality, contributing to 36 clearances amidst a tough battle with Hoejlund.
  • Renato Veiga - 6/10: Held a steady defensive line though briefly troubled by Denmark’s front three during the second goal.
  • Nuno Mendes - 7/10: Used his pace effectively on the left flank, making crucial recovery runs and limiting Denmark’s clear chances.

Midfield

  • Vitinha - 8/10: Controlled midfield rhythm and scored the pivotal third goal, breaking Danish resolve with precise timing and calmness under pressure.
  • Ruben Neves - 7/10: Anchored midfield, allowed Fernandes freedom to create, and shielded defence effectively against counterattacks.
  • Bruno Fernandes - 9/10: Man of the Match. His vision and passing unlocked the Danish defence twice, driving Portugal’s impressive xG figure.

Attack

  • Pedro Neto - 6/10: Used speed to stretch the defence but missed key final passes. Worked hard defensively but lacked impact in attack.
  • Rafael Leao - 6/10: Threatened on transitions but found few clear chances; substituted after an hour for tactical reasons.
  • Goncalo Ramos - 8/10: Efficient striker who took his chance well and linked play effectively, boosting Portugal’s attacking threat.

Substitutes and Manager

  • Diogo Dalot - 7/10: Entered in the 63rd minute, providing the assist for Felix’s goal and injecting attacking energy from full-back.
  • Trincao - 6/10: Came on to help maintain possession and stabilize the team in closing stages.
  • Joao Felix - 8/10: Perfect impact substitute, scoring the decisive fourth goal shortly after entering the match.
  • Joao Neves - 6/10: Added fresh legs in midfield during the final minutes.
  • Tomas Araujo - N/A: Brief stoppage-time appearance to reinforce defence.
  • Jorge Jesus - 8/10: The coach’s strategy paid off with clinical finishing and smart substitutions that ended Denmark’s resistance.