At Copenhagen’s Parken Stadium, Portugal step into their Nations League meeting with Denmark carrying a changed look and the after-effects of Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial departure from the squad. Rafael Leão will wear Portugal’s No. 7 shirt for this match, while Jorge Jesus has reshaped his side for an evening kick-off scheduled for 20:45.
A vacant shirt and changes across Portugal’s squad
Ronaldo’s No. 7 had been left available following his exit, and Leão has taken it for the visit to Denmark. The change is the most visible among several alterations to Portugal’s squad numbering.
- Fábio Silva takes No. 17, previously worn by Leão.
- Gonçalo Inácio moves from No. 8 to No. 14, the number Francisco Conceição wore against Norway.
- Bruno Fernandes returns to the group and resumes wearing No. 8 after missing the Norway match because of discomfort.
Jesus has made four changes to his starting side and left João Félix among the substitutes. Portugal have also changed the personnel in midfield, with Rúben Neves and Vitinha operating behind Bruno Fernandes.
Portugal’s selection at Parken
Portugal line up with Diogo Costa in goal; João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga and Nuno Mendes across the defence; Rúben Neves and Vitinha in the deeper midfield roles; Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes and Leão supporting Gonçalo Ramos.
- Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
- Defenders: João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes
- Midfielders: Rúben Neves, Vitinha, Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão
- Forward: Gonçalo Ramos
Denmark make three switches after Wales win
Brian Riemer’s Denmark arrive after a 2-0 victory over Wales and make three alterations from that side. The goalkeeper changes, as do both wide attacking positions, for a fixture in which the hosts need a result to strengthen their Nations League ambitions.
Denmark start with Hermansen; Kristensen, Provstgaard, Andersen and Mæhle; Hjulmand and Højbjerg; Daghim, Damsgaard and Daramy; with Højlund leading the attack.
A fixture that has always produced a goal
The two nations have met 18 times without ever recording a goalless draw. Portugal hold a commanding overall record, winning 12 of those encounters, with Denmark claiming four victories and the remaining two ending level.
A Ukrainian refereeing team will take charge in Copenhagen. Mykola Balakin is the referee, assisted by Oleksandr Berkut and Viktor Matyash, while Klym Zabroda is fourth official. England’s Stuart Attwell will oversee video review duties.
