Jorge Jesus mocks Ronaldo’s absence after Portugal-Denmark
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on La Nouvelle Tribune, P.M. News, L’essentiel and Vanguard
Portugal suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat by Denmark in Braga in their first match since Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement. Jorge Jesus mocked the former captain’s absence, while the defeat exposed Portugal’s weaknesses against the Danes. Portugal, already qualified for the quarter-finals, remain top of the group, reports Vanguard.
Rasmus Højlund scored twice after half-time, following Pierre-Emile Højbjerg’s opening goal from a penalty in the 43rd minute. Joachim Andersen then headed in before Bernardo Silva reduced the deficit in stoppage time. Denmark now have nine points, three behind Portugal, according to Vanguard.
Before kick-off, Portuguese players and mascots wore Cristiano Ronaldo’s name and number 7. Supporters also unfurled a banner in his honour and applauded when the clock reached the seventh minute. Ronaldo left the national team after 234 matches and 146 goals, including a Euro 2016 title.
His retirement followed a period of tensions with Jorge Jesus after he was not named in the starting line-up for a Nations League match in September. The Portuguese Football Federation subsequently handed him a 30-day suspension. Denmark, second with nine points, must get a result against Norway on Tuesday to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.
