Ronaldo Misses Penalty but Trincao Rescues Portugal in Nations League Thriller
Francisco Trincao came off the bench to score twice as Portugal secured a dramatic 5-2 extra-time win over Denmark.
The victory books their place in the Nations League semi-finals.
Cristiano Ronaldo had an early chance to put Portugal ahead but saw his weak penalty easily saved by Kasper Schmeichel.
The 40-year-old struggled in front of goal again, with the Danish keeper denying him from close range.
Portugal eventually broke the deadlock when Joachim Andersen headed Bruno Fernandes’ corner into his own net.
Denmark responded in the second half, with Rasmus Kristensen’s looping header leveling the score.
Ronaldo atoned for his penalty miss by turning in Fernandes’ long-range effort off the post, but Denmark hit back almost immediately as Christian Eriksen finished off a mistake from Portugal’s defense.
With the match heading towards penalties, Trincao struck in extra time, slotting home after Gonçalo Ramos’ shot was saved.
Jota thought he had extended the lead, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
However, Ramos sealed Portugal’s 5-3 aggregate win by converting Jota’s cutback late on.
Portugal now face Germany in the semi-finals as they continue their quest for another Nations League title.
