Winners of the inaugural UEFA Nations League (UNL) in 2019, Portugal are now just one game away from their first appearance in the final tournament since that historic triumph.
Under the guidance of Roberto Martínez, Portugal have enjoyed a strong record (W20, D2, L5), but their perfect winning streak against Denmark was abruptly halted in the first leg, as they suffered a 1-0 defeat. Now, back on home soil in Lisbon, they aim to overturn the deficit and book their spot in the semi-finals.
Portugal’s home form in the UNL has been formidable, with the Seleção unbeaten in 11 of their last 13 home fixtures in the competition (W10, D1, L2). However, a recurring theme in recent matches has been defensive frailties, as they have conceded exactly once in each of their last four UNL home games. Against a resilient Denmark side, Portugal may need to find the net multiple times to ensure progression, though they can take encouragement from their historically dominant head-to-head record (W11, D2, L4).
Denmark’s journey to the quarter-finals has been far from smooth, as they failed to win any of their final four group-stage matches (D2, L2). However, they showed great character in the first leg, securing a crucial victory that ended their longest winless streak in the competition’s short history. Under new boss Brian Riemer, who took charge in October 2024, the Danes have begun to show signs of resurgence (W1, D1, L1), and they will be eager to build on that momentum in Lisbon.
Historically strong travelers in the UNL, Denmark have gone unbeaten in six of their first seven away matches (W5, D1, L1), including famous victories over France and England. However, their recent away form has been less impressive, with four consecutive winless matches (D2, L2). Overcoming Portugal at their Lisbon fortress will be a daunting task, particularly as Denmark have managed just one away win against a FIFA top-ten nation since 2021 (W1, D1, L5), a victory over France.
Players to Watch:
- Bruno Fernandes (Portugal): The Manchester United playmaker has been in electric form, contributing to seven goals in his last three club appearances (5 goals, 2 assists). His creativity and finishing ability could prove pivotal in Portugal’s comeback bid.
- Rasmus Højlund (Denmark): Fernandes’ Manchester United teammate turned rival, Højlund netted the decisive first-leg winner. He now has eight goals in 23 senior appearances for Denmark, with four of his last five club scoring games seeing him score decisive goals.
Hot Stat: Each of Portugal’s last seven UNL home goals have come after half-time, suggesting the second half could be crucial in deciding this tie.
With everything on the line, Portugal will need to summon their attacking firepower to break down a determined Denmark side. Will the Seleção complete the comeback, or can Denmark hold firm to secure a famous semi-final spot?
