Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best
Portugal Player Ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo Proves a Passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Højlund Settles Nations League Clash Despite Diogo Costa’s Heroics
Portugal fell to a 1-0 defeat against Denmark in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal, with Rasmus Højlund’s decisive goal proving the difference. Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best While Denmark celebrated a hard-fought victory, Portugal will be left wondering what went wrong. Cristiano Ronaldo, once again, struggled to make an impact, while goalkeeper Diogo Costa put in a heroic performance to keep the scoreline respectable. Here’s how each Portugal player rated on the night:
Goalkeeper & Defense
Diogo Costa – 8.5/10 (Man of the Match)
The Porto shot-stopper was outstanding, making multiple crucial saves to keep Portugal in the game. He denied Jonas Wind early on and pulled off a stunning stop to keep out Christian Eriksen before being beaten by an unstoppable strike in the second half. Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best Without him, Portugal could have lost by a bigger margin.
João Cancelo – 5/10
A disappointing night for the Bayern Munich full-back. He struggled defensively against Denmark’s quick wingers and failed to deliver quality crosses when going forward. Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best His late assist attempt for Ronaldo was one of the few positives in his performance.
Rúben Dias – 6/10
Solid in aerial duels but uncharacteristically sloppy with his passing. He was outmuscled by Rasmus Højlund in key moments and failed to anticipate Denmark’s attacking movement.
Pepe – 6.5/10
The veteran defender showed his experience, making key interceptions and keeping Denmark at bay for most of the game. However, at 41 years old, his pace was exposed at times, particularly when defending counterattacks.
Nuno Mendes – 6/10
Energetic in attack but often left space behind for Denmark to exploit. His link-up play with Rafael Leão was promising, but his final ball lacked precision.
Midfield
William Carvalho – 5.5/10
Struggled to impose himself in midfield and was often bypassed by Denmark’s quick transitions. His passing was safe but uninspiring, failing to provide the forward thrust Portugal needed.
Bruno Fernandes – 6.5/10
The Manchester United playmaker was Portugal’s most creative outlet, but his influence was inconsistent. He created a few dangerous chances, including one for Ronaldo, Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best but also wasted several opportunities with errant shooting and misplaced passes.
Bernardo Silva – 6/10
Worked hard as always but lacked his usual sharpness in the final third. He combined well with João Cancelo at times but was unable to break through Denmark’s well-organized defense.
Attack
Rafael Leão – 6.5/10
One of Portugal’s brightest sparks in attack. His pace and dribbling caused problems for Denmark, but he lacked the final product. Came close with a curling shot that Schmeichel saved brilliantly.
João Félix – 5.5/10
Struggled to influence the game and was often outmuscled by Denmark’s defenders. Showed some nice touches but failed to make a meaningful impact before being substituted.
Cristiano Ronaldo – 4.5/10
Another frustrating night for the Portugal captain. He had one big chance in the first half, only for Schmeichel to deny him. Apart from that, he was largely anonymous, Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best failing to connect with crosses or create danger. At 39, questions will continue about his role in the team.
Substitutes
João Palhinha (on for Carvalho, 65’) – 6/10
Added some defensive stability but didn’t change the game.
Diogo Jota (on for Félix, 70’) – 6.5/10
Brought energy and movement but lacked service to make an impact.
Vitinha (on for Fernandes, 80’) – 6/10
Had little time to influence proceedings.
Gonçalo Ramos (on for Ronaldo, 85’) – N/A
Came on too late to be rated.
Manager
Roberto Martínez – 5/10
His team lacked creativity and urgency in attack. His substitutions were reactive rather than proactive, and Portugal’s buildup play was too predictable. Needs to rethink his attacking approach before the next major tournament.
Conclusion
Denmark deserved their win, showing resilience and tactical discipline. Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best Portugal, meanwhile, must reflect on a disappointing performance where their biggest stars, particularly Ronaldo, failed to deliver. Portugal player ratings vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo proves a passenger AGAIN as Rasmus Hojlund settles Nations League clash despite Diogo Costa heroics 2025 best As the team looks ahead to future competitions, it may be time for a new attacking approach and a greater emphasis on youth.
