Portugal Advances to Nations League Semifinals with 5-2 Victory Over Denmark
Posted on March 24, 2025
Portugal staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Denmark 5-2 after extra time in the second leg of their Nations League quarter-final, overturning a first-leg deficit to win 5-3 on aggregate. The match, held at Estadio Jose Alvalade, showcased the brilliance of Francisco Trincao, who came off the bench to score twice and help secure the victory for the hosts.
The match began dramatically, with Portugal awarded a penalty in the opening minutes after Cristiano Ronaldo was fouled. However, Ronaldo's penalty was poorly executed and saved by Denmark's goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. Despite this setback, Portugal found the net late in the first half when Denmark's Joachim Andersen inadvertently scored an own goal, allowing Portugal to level the aggregate score at 1-1.
Denmark responded strongly in the second half, regaining the lead in the 56th minute through Rasmus Kristensen's header. Ronaldo equalized for Portugal in the 72nd minute, finishing off a rebound after a shot from Bruno Fernandes hit the post. Just minutes later, Denmark took control again when Christian Eriksen scored, putting them ahead 3-2 on aggregate.
With time running out, Trincao entered the game and made an immediate impact, scoring a crucial equalizer that forced the match into extra time. He then scored again at the start of extra time, giving Portugal a 4-3 aggregate lead. Goncalo Ramos capped off the scoring with a late goal, sealing Portugal's spot in the semi-finals.
Portugal's victory ended a frustrating scoring drought, as they had gone 202 minutes without a goal in the Nations League prior to this match. The win sets up a semi-final clash against Germany, who advanced by defeating Italy in their quarter-final.
This thrilling encounter highlighted both teams' attacking prowess, but ultimately, Portugal's resilience and the strategic introduction of Trincao made the difference in a high-stakes match.
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