Portugal defeats Denmark to reach UEFA Nations League semifinals

KATHMANDU: Portugal secured a spot in the UEFA Nations League semifinals after defeating Denmark 5-2 in the second leg of their quarterfinal on Sunday, advancing with a 5-3 aggregate score.

Denmark had won the first leg 1-0.

Francisco Trincão was the hero for Portugal, scoring twice, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos each netted one goal.

Denmark contributed an own goal, with João Pereira scoring for the hosts.

Denmark’s Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Kristensen found the back of the net for their side.

Portugal took the lead in the 38th minute through an own goal by Denmark’s Joachim Andersen.

In the 56th minute, Rasmus Kristensen leveled the score for Denmark. Ronaldo then put Portugal back in front with a goal in the 72nd minute, only for Eriksen to stun the home fans by equalizing just four minutes later.

With the score tied 3-3, the match went into extra time. In the opening minutes of extra time, Francisco Trincão completed his second goal, giving Portugal the lead once again.

Gonçalo Ramos sealed the victory for Portugal with a goal in the 115th minute, ensuring their place in the semifinals.

Having won the inaugural Nations League in 2019, Portugal is now aiming to repeat that success. They will face hosts Germany in the final four, set to take place in June.