| Portugal vs Denmark | |
| MATCH | Nations League |
| DATE | 02 - 10 - 2026 |
| TIME | 12.15 AM IST |
| STADIUM | Stadium |
Denmark vs Portugal – UEFA Nations League Match Preview
Denmark will look to build on their recent victory when they face Portugal in their next UEFA Nations League Group A4 fixture. The Danes began their campaign with a narrow 3-2 defeat against Norway but responded with a 2-0 win over Wales, leaving them with three points from their opening two matches.
Brian Riemer’s team still have plenty to play for during this international window. After the Portugal fixture, Denmark are scheduled to meet Wales again, making Thursday’s encounter an important opportunity to strengthen their position in the group.
Denmark have established themselves as regular participants in League A of the Nations League. Their overall record in the competition stands at 13 victories, five draws and eight defeats from 26 matches.
Denmark vs Portugal Head-to-Head
Portugal have traditionally had the upper hand in this fixture. The two nations have met 18 times, with Denmark recording four victories, two draws and 12 defeats.
Their most recent Nations League meetings produced one win apiece. Denmark secured a 1-0 home victory before Portugal responded emphatically with a 5-2 win in the return fixture.
Portugal have also won four of their last five meetings with Denmark and will arrive with confidence as they attempt to continue their perfect start to the current Nations League campaign.
Portugal Looking to Maintain Winning Run
Portugal began their Group A4 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Wales before following it up with a 2-1 win against Norway. The six points from their opening two games put the reigning Nations League champions in a strong position.
Portugal won the 2024-25 Nations League final against Spain on penalties, claiming their second title in the competition. They remain the only team to have lifted the Nations League trophy twice.
However, Portugal will be without Cristiano Ronaldo for this fixture. The veteran forward has left the national team camp following discussions involving the coaching staff and Portuguese football authorities. Ronaldo has stated that he will explain the circumstances surrounding his departure at a later stage.
His absence could provide an opportunity for other attacking players to take greater responsibility in the Portugal lineup.
Current Form
Denmark – Nations League: LW
Denmark – All Competitions: WLDWLW
Portugal – Nations League: WW
Portugal – All Competitions: WDWLWW
Team News
Denmark suffered an injury setback during their win over Wales, with Manchester United defender Patrick Dorgu picking up a hamstring problem. The injury has forced him to leave the national team camp and return to his club.
Mohamed Daramy came on as his replacement and impressed during the match. The 24-year-old could therefore be rewarded with a starting role against Portugal.
Rasmus Hojlund is expected to continue leading the Danish attack. The Manchester United striker has scored 14 goals in 37 international appearances and will be one of Denmark’s main attacking threats.
Portugal are expected to welcome Bruno Fernandes back into contention after the Manchester United midfielder missed the previous match against Norway. His return could provide additional creativity and experience in midfield.
Cristiano Ronaldo will not feature after leaving the squad. His absence means Portugal will need another player to lead the attack.
Goncalo Ramos scored in Portugal’s previous match and could retain his place in the starting lineup. Vitinha is also expected to return to the midfield, while Joao Palhinha and Francisco Conceicao could potentially make way depending on the manager’s selection.
Denmark vs Portugal – What to Expect
Denmark will look to use home advantage and their recent win over Wales as momentum going into this difficult fixture. Portugal, meanwhile, will aim to maintain their winning start and strengthen their position at the top end of Group A4.
The absence of Ronaldo adds an additional storyline to the match, but Portugal still have considerable attacking and midfield quality available. Denmark will need to remain organised defensively while taking advantage of their opportunities in front of goal.