Jorge Jesus and Ronaldo fell out in September, leading the latter to leave Portugal’s camp and eventually quit international football.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has insisted that he does not miss Cristiano Ronaldo, despite his side’s heavy thrashing by Denmark in a UEFA Nations League clash played at the Estádio Municipal de Braga.
He made this known while speaking after his team’s first loss since the legendary forward announced his retirement from international football, as quoted by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Saturday’s encounter in Portugal provided an opportunity for Portuguese supporters and players to honour the departing captain.
Players and mascots walked onto the pitch wearing shirts bearing Ronaldo’s iconic number seven. Supporters also displayed his name in the upper section of the stands, while the letters ‘GOAT’ (Greatest Of All Time) were formed in the lower tier.
A banner carrying the message ‘Thank You, Captain’ was also displayed, with a similar tribute appearing on the stadium scoreboard in the seventh minute.
However, the emotional atmosphere surrounding Ronaldo’s farewell quickly gave way to disappointment as Denmark dominated proceedings to secure a comfortable victory.
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Pierre-Emile Højbjerg opened the scoring shortly before half-time, converting from the penalty spot after Portugal defender Rúben Dias was penalised for handball.
Højlund extended Denmark’s advantage with two goals within eight minutes early in the second half, putting the visitors firmly in control of the contest.
Fulham defender Joachim Andersen added a fourth goal in the 75th minute, further exposing Portugal’s defensive struggles.
Portugal managed to score a consolation goal in the third minute of added time through Bernardo Silva, who finished from close range after João Neves’ initial effort was saved.
When asked after the match if he missed Ronaldo following the defeat, Jorge Jesus responded: ‘Missing what? He’s no longer in the national team, so what’s missing?
‘The only thing missing is his presence here to keep me company.’
