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

Portugal extended their flawless record in the UEFA Nations League A with a dynamic 4-2 victory over Denmark at Parken Stadium. Bruno Fernandes orchestrated the game with brilliant creativity, while clinical finishes from Goncalo Ramos and Joao Felix secured all three points for the visitors in Copenhagen.

The match started with Portugal taking early control as Joao Cancelo scored in the 13th minute, but Denmark responded quickly through Mikkel Damsgaard. Portugal’s technical superiority soon showed as Ramos regained the lead just before halftime, assisted by Fernandes’ first of two key passes.

The second half remained intense, with Rasmus Hoejlund leveling for Denmark early on. Portugal stayed composed, regaining the advantage via Vitinha before substitute Joao Felix sealed the win late on. Despite Denmark holding more possession, Portugal's efficiency was clear with 10 shots on target and an expected goals (xG) of 2.67, marking their third consecutive group victory.

Goalkeeper & Defense

• Diogo Costa - 6/10: Faced several tests, though he couldn’t stop Denmark’s close-range goals. His distribution helped Portugal break Danish pressure during fast transitions.
• Joao Cancelo - 8/10: Frequently cut inside to create numerical advantages centrally and opened scoring with a sharp strike. His composure was key until his substitution in the 63rd minute.
• Ruben Dias - 7/10: Central defensive leader who battled physically with Hoejlund. Contributed significantly to Portugal’s 36 clearances and maintained solid positioning as the game stretched.
• Renato Veiga - 6/10: Delivered a steady performance despite some struggles against Denmark’s forward runs. Recovered well to help maintain defensive shape under pressure.
• Nuno Mendes - 7/10: Provided pace and crucial recovery runs down the left flank. His disciplined defending limited Denmark to just three shots on target despite their total of twelve attempts.

Midfield

• Vitinha - 8/10: Controlled tempo and showed excellent awareness to score Portugal’s third goal, breaking Danish morale. Held onto the ball under pressure effectively.
• Ruben Neves - 7/10: Anchored midfield allowing Fernandes freedom to create. Sat deep to protect defense and helped prevent Danish counters through central spaces.
• Bruno Fernandes - 9/10: Undisputed Man of the Match. Delivered two vital assists and showcased exceptional vision and passing accuracy. Was the engine behind Portugal’s potent attacking display reflected in their 2.67 xG.

Attack

• Pedro Neto - 6/10: Used speed to stretch defense but lacked precision in final deliveries. Defensively contributed but was overshadowed by teammates' finishing.
• Rafael Leao - 6/10: Threatened on counterattacks but struggled to find clear chances. Replaced after 60 minutes as Portugal adjusted tactics.
• Goncalo Ramos - 8/10: Efficient striker who capitalized on Fernandes’ assist for his 25th-minute goal. Linked play well and was focal in creating numerous shots on target.

Substitutes and Manager

• Diogo Dalot - 7/10: Entered at 63 minutes and made an immediate impact with an assist for Felix’s late goal. Showed attacking intent from full-back.
• Trincao - 6/10: Came on to improve ball retention on the wing and helped stabilize possession as Portugal closed out the game.
• Joao Felix - 8/10: Perfect cameo after coming on in the 81st minute, scoring the decisive fourth goal seven minutes later to secure the victory.
• Joao Neves - 6/10: Added energy in midfield during the final stages to help see out the win.
• Tomas Araujo - N/A: Introduced during stoppage time to reinforce defense.
• Jorge Jesus - 8/10: The coach’s tactical approach paid off. His substitutions, especially Dalot and Felix, were instrumental in breaking down Denmark’s resistance and securing the result.