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

Portugal continued their strong run in the UEFA Nations League A with a commanding 4-2 win at Parken against Denmark. A brilliant performance from Bruno Fernandes, combined with sharp finishes by Goncalo Ramos and Joao Felix, secured all three points for the visitors.

The match started with Portugal taking an early lead when Joao Cancelo scored in the 13th minute. Denmark quickly responded through Mikkel Damsgaard, but before halftime, Goncalo Ramos put Portugal back ahead, assisted by the inspiring Fernandes. The second half saw Denmark level again via Rasmus Hoejlund, but Portugal maintained composure. Vitinha scored to regain the lead, and substitute Joao Felix sealed the victory late on. Despite Denmark controlling possession more, Portugal’s clinical finishing and efficient attacking were clear, registering 10 shots on target and an expected goals (xG) of 2.67.

Goalkeeper & Defence

• Diogo Costa - 6/10: Faced some pressure but could not stop the close-range goals from Damsgaard and Hoejlund. His distribution helped Portugal break through the Danish press during quick turnovers.
• Joao Cancelo - 8/10: Frequently moved inside to overload central midfield and opened the scoring with a sharp strike. His technical control was key until his substitution in the 63rd minute.
• Ruben Dias - 7/10: Served as the defensive anchor, battling physically with Hoejlund. Contributed to 36 clearances and stayed well-positioned despite the game’s intensity.
• Renato Veiga - 6/10: Showed maturity for a young defender, though he struggled briefly with Denmark’s front three movements. Recovered well to keep the defensive shape intact.
• Nuno Mendes - 7/10: Provided pace down the left wing and made crucial recovery runs. His disciplined defending helped limit Denmark to just three shots on target despite their overall pressure.

Midfield

• Vitinha - 8/10: Controlled the midfield rhythm and scored Portugal’s third goal, a strike that deflated Denmark. His ability to keep possession under pressure was essential tactically.
• Ruben Neves - 7/10: Acted as the midfield anchor, allowing Fernandes to roam freely. He kept play flowing and shielded the defence effectively, denying Denmark counter-attacking space.
• Bruno Fernandes - 9/10: The standout player who orchestrated the win with two key assists. His vision and passing repeatedly found gaps in Denmark’s defense, powering Portugal’s attacking threat and high xG total.

Attack

• Pedro Neto - 6/10: Used his speed to stretch the Danish defense but lacked precision in final passes. He contributed defensively to support Cancelo but was overshadowed offensively.
• Rafael Leao - 6/10: Threatened in transition but did not find clear chances. Forced Denmark to stay deep but was subbed after an hour for tactical reasons.
• Goncalo Ramos - 8/10: Efficient and composed, scoring the 25th-minute goal off Fernandes’ assist. Played well as a focal point and helped generate many shots on target.

Substitutes & Manager

• Diogo Dalot - 7/10: Came on in the 63rd minute and made an immediate impact, assisting Joao Felix’s goal with forward intent from full-back.
• Trincao - 6/10: Brought on to improve ball retention on the wing, helping Portugal maintain possession to close out the game.
• Joao Felix - 8/10: Entered in the 81st minute and quickly made a difference by scoring a clinical goal in the 87th minute to secure the win.
• Joao Neves - 6/10: Added energy late in midfield to help Portugal finish strongly.
• Tomas Araujo - N/A: Introduced during stoppage time to strengthen the defence.
• Jorge Jesus - 8/10: His tactical approach paid off, guiding a clinical side that capitalized on chances. His substitutions, especially Dalot and Felix, were decisive in ending Denmark’s resistance.