Denmark’s Rasmus Hoejlund took centre stage in Braga on Saturday, November 14, scoring twice as his side beat Portugal 4-1 in the UEFA Nations League clash. After full-time, the Danish striker marked the moment with an Instagram post that paid direct tribute to his childhood idol, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Denmark went ahead just before half-time when Pierre-Emile Højbjerg scored from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute after Rúben Dias was penalised for handball. Rasmus Hoejlund then struck twice in quick succession early in the second half. He volleyed home the second goal in the 49th minute after neat build-up play, before finishing low past Diogo Costa in the 57th minute to put Denmark 3-0 up. Joachim Andersen headed in a fourth in the 75th minute.
Bernardo Silva pulled one back for Portugal in the third minute of stoppage time, but it changed little in front of 24,879 fans at the Estádio Municipal de Braga.
Once the match finished, Rasmus Hoejlund posted a celebration photo and wrote: “I think the only appropriate caption here is siuuuu.” The message carried extra meaning because this was Portugal’s first game since Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football.
The evening in Braga had been organised as a tribute to the Portugal legend, who ends his international career as the record holder for both goals (146) and appearances (234) in men’s senior international football. Several tributes took place before and during the match, yet Hoejlund’s brace ensured Denmark left with the points.
(More to follow)
