Portugal vs Denmark: Nations League clash in Braga marks first game without Ronaldo

Portugal host Denmark at the Braga Municipal Stadium on Saturday, 14 November, in UEFA Nations League Group A4, the first match Portugal play without Cristiano Ronaldo since he announced his international retirement. Kick-off is at 19:45 GMT. Portugal have already secured a place in the quarterfinals and will be confirmed as group winners if they avoid defeat.

A new chapter without Ronaldo

Ronaldo ended his 23-year association with the national team last week, announcing his retirement in a lengthy video posted on social media. The announcement came weeks after a public rift with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus. The 41-year-old said it was time to "pass it on to the future".

In his absence, the attack has been carried by Gonçalo Ramos and João Félix, who have three goals each. Portugal have a perfect record in the competition, with four wins from four matches. They beat Wales 1-0 away, Norway 2-1 at home and Denmark 4-2 in Copenhagen on 1 October, after a 3-2 defeat in Norway in their opening game.

What Denmark need

Denmark sit second in the group and have a harder route to the last eight. They must beat Portugal and hope neighbours Norway do not beat Wales in Norway's match against the third-placed side, a clash between the bottom two. Denmark moved to six points with a win in Wales on Matchday 4.

Rasmus Højlund has been their main threat, scoring three of Denmark's seven goals so far. Coach Brian Riemer has described him as outstanding for a long time. Denmark will be without Patrick Dorgu, and several players are one booking away from suspension.

Team news and predictions

João Cancelo and Francisco Conceição are suspended for Portugal. Rafael Leão, Nuno Mendes and Nuno Tavares are injured. The probable Portugal line-up includes Diogo Costa in goal, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Neves, João Félix and Gonçalo Ramos.

Opta's supercomputer gives Portugal a 59.4 percent chance of victory and Denmark 19.4 percent. Denmark's probable starting XI features Mads Hermansen in goal, Mikkel Damsgaard and Højlund up front.

What we know so far

Portugal start the match as favourites, unbeaten in the group and already through, while Denmark need a win to keep their own quarterfinal hopes alive. Norway play Wales in a parallel A4 fixture, and the outcome of that game could decide Denmark's route. Viewers can find regional broadcasters through UEFA's official listing.