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Portugal Player Ratings After 4-2 Win Over Denmark in Nations League

Portugal maintained their flawless record in the UEFA Nations League A by defeating Denmark 4-2 at Parken. The visitors showcased a masterclass in creativity from Bruno Fernandes, while clinical finishing from Goncalo Ramos and Joao Felix sealed the victory.

The match kicked off with Portugal taking early control when Joao Cancelo scored in the 13th minute, though Mikkel Damsgaard quickly equalized for Denmark. Portugal's technical superiority was clear as Ramos restored the lead before halftime, assisted by Fernandes. The second half saw Denmark’s Rasmus Hoejlund level the score again, but Portugal responded with goals from Vitinha and substitute Felix to close out the game. Despite Denmark holding more possession, Portugal’s efficiency was evident through 10 shots on target and an expected goals (xG) of 2.67, securing their third straight group win.

Goalkeeper & Defence

  • Diogo Costa - 6/10: Faced steady pressure and couldn’t stop the close-range finishes by Damsgaard and Hoejlund. His distribution aided Portugal in bypassing Denmark’s press during key moments.
  • Joao Cancelo - 8/10: Frequently moved inside to overload central areas and opened the scoring with a precise strike. His composure was key until he was subbed in the 63rd minute.
  • Ruben Dias - 7/10: The defensive anchor, handling physical battles well and contributing to 36 clearances. Stayed composed even as the game stretched out.
  • Renato Veiga - 6/10: Delivered a steady performance, struggled momentarily with Denmark’s front trio movement but recovered to hold the line during pressure spells.
  • Nuno Mendes - 7/10: His pace down the left was vital, especially in recovery runs. Defensively disciplined, helping limit Denmark to only three shots on target despite 12 attempts.

Midfield

  • Vitinha - 8/10: Acted as a metronome, showing sharp spatial awareness to score Portugal’s third goal. Retained possession effectively under pressure.
  • Ruben Neves - 7/10: Served as midfield anchor, enabling Fernandes to operate freely. Sat deep to protect defence and stopped Danish counters.
  • Bruno Fernandes - 9/10: Man of the Match. The creative engine with two assists for Ramos and Vitinha, showcasing top-tier vision and passing to dismantle Denmark’s midfield.

Attack

  • Pedro Neto - 6/10: Used speed to stretch Denmark’s defense but missed chances in the final pass. Worked hard defensively.
  • Rafael Leao - 6/10: Threatened on transitions but lacked clear opportunities. Subbed after 60 minutes for tactical reasons.
  • Goncalo Ramos - 8/10: Clinical finishing with a confident 25th-minute goal. Linked play well and was central to Portugal’s high shot count.

Substitutes & Manager

  • Diogo Dalot - 7/10: Entered in the 63rd minute and made a decisive impact by assisting Felix’s late goal.
  • Trincao - 6/10: Brought on to help maintain possession and stabilize the team’s control in the final stages.
  • Joao Felix - 8/10: Came on in the 81st minute and quickly scored to seal the 4-2 win.
  • Joao Neves - 6/10: Added fresh energy in midfield during the closing ten minutes.
  • Tomas Araujo - N/A: Introduced in stoppage time to reinforce the defence.
  • Jorge Jesus - 8/10: Tactics worked well, with his substitutions directly impacting the outcome. Portugal’s clinical edge outshone Denmark’s possession dominance.

Match Summary

  • Competition: UEFA Nations League A
  • Fixture: Denmark 2 - 4 Portugal
  • Date: October 2, 2026
  • Location: Parken Stadium, Copenhagen

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