Portugal - Denmark assessment at Nations League

Overview

The first leg between the two teams witnessed a big surprise at Parken when Denmark defeated Portugal with a score of 1-0. This was not a lucky victory for Denmark as they created more chances than their opponents. Even the 1-0 loss was a lucky draw for Portugal. This result gives Denmark a big advantage before the second leg.

The first leg against Denmark exposed a series of weaknesses of Portugal. One of them was the weakness in attack. Neither Ronaldo, Leao nor Neto were active in pressing the front line, so Denmark deployed the ball very easily.

That is also the reason why Denmark, despite having less possession, created many dangerous situations. They have had 23 shots, nearly 3 times as many as Portugal (8 times). The efforts of Bruno Fernandes or Vitinha were not enough to fill the attack.

Disruption in playing style is also a big problem for Portugal. The "European Selecao" has almost no clear strategy, but only creates breakthroughs thanks to the class of the stars. Clearly, coach Roberto Martinez must make many changes, from personnel to tactics if he wants to take Portugal to the next round.

However, there are still opportunities for Portugal. They have only conceded 1 goal and will play at home in the second leg. Ronaldo and his teammates are fully capable of creating a comeback.

Denmark's recent victory was only their fourth in 16 meetings with Portugal. They lost at least once to Lisbon 10 years ago in the EURO qualifiers.

Personnel situation

Martinez will consider changes to revitalize Portugal, with players like Jota and Bernardo Silva starting from the start.

On the other side of the front line, Hojlund, after scoring against Portugal, can be trusted to start to replace Mika Biereth.

Expected lineup

Portugal: Costa, Dalot, Dias, Veiga, N. Mendes, Vitinha, J. Neves, Fernandes, Leao, B. Silva, Jota.

Denmark: Schmeichel, Kristensen, Andersen, Vestergaard, Mahle, Hjulmand, Lindstrom, Eriksen, Skov Olsen, Norgaard, Hojlund.