Goncalo Ramos helped Portugal put the saga surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo behind them with an assist and a goal in the first half of their UEFA Nations League clash with Denmark.
Ronaldo sensationally left the squad this week after a fall out with coach Jorge Jesus, seemingly bringing an end to his storied international career.
The drama around Portugal’s record goalscorer understandably overshadowed the build-up to the game with Denmark at Parken, but it had little impact on the performance of Jesus’ men in the early stages.
Ramos, who started ahead of Ronaldo against Norway and was picked to lead the line again in Copenhagen, went close to breaking the deadlock as his snap shot hit the post.
But just moments later he teed up the opener, his return ball to Joao Cancelo collected by the Barcelona full-back, who then produced a finish that belied his position as a defender by delicately lofting over Mads Hermansen to give Portugal a 13th-minute lead.
Rafael Leao was subsequently denied by Hermansen before seeing an effort from point-blank range deflected wide.
And Denmark made the most of his profligacy, with Mikkel Damsgaard bending into the far corner to restore parity, though it did not last long.
Indeed, a stunning one-two with Bruno Fernandes sent Ramos through on goal, and the AC Milan striker made no mistake with a composed low finish, illustrating why Portugal may be better off without their 41-year-old talisman.
Only a reflex save by Hermansen with his legs prevented Ramos from making it 3-1 shortly before half-time following good work from Leao.
Portugal are aiming to make it three wins from three to start the defence of the Nations League title they won for a second time in 2025. In Ronaldo’s absence, they put themselves on course to maintain their perfect record.
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