Portugal face Denmark without Ronaldo, Jesus keeps the course

On Thursday evening, Portugal face Denmark in Copenhagen for the fourth matchday of the Nations League group stage. Cristiano Ronaldo is not on the team sheet, following the psychodrama that took place the day before.

The Portuguese want to keep the top of the group by securing a third consecutive win. After two victories, they still hold the most points.

Ronaldo's withdrawal comes after an internal dispute, described as a psychodrama by the media. The coach therefore decided not to bring him on, even though he had warmed up at length before the match against Norway.

Jorge Jesus' point of view

Jorge Jesus, sixty‑two years old, said before kickoff: “For now, we have a match (against Denmark), then another at the Dragão (against Norway on October 4). Afterwards, we will talk about this issue without evading it. But at the moment, the subject is closed.” He thus indicated that the team would focus on tonight’s duel.

Wayne Rooney slams Cristiano Ronaldo after his Nations League exit

The coach also emphasized that the matter of Ronaldo’s absence is now resolved, even though the forty‑one‑year‑old player left the squad, unhappy with his role as a substitute.

Denmark looking for the point

Denmark, which earned its first points against Wales, now wants to snatch points from the Portuguese in Copenhagen. The match kicks off at 20:45.

Portugal, after beating Wales and then Norway, retains the most points and tops group A4. The encounter therefore represents a crucial test for both teams.