Portugal advances to the semi-finals thanks to two extra-time goals

The second leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-final between Portugal and Denmark ended 5-2 on Monday morning (24 March 2025).

Portugal booked their place in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals by winning 5-3 on aggregate after losing 1-0 in the first leg.

The hosts led 3-2 at the end of normal time, forcing the match to go into extra time. Goals from Francisco Trincao and Goncalo Ramos sealed victory for Portugal.

The hosts were aggressive from the outset and had a golden opportunity in the third minute when a penalty was awarded. However, Cristiano Ronaldo’s spot-kick was saved by goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.

Portugal finally took the lead in the 38th minute when Joachim Andersen scored an own goal after misjudging Bruno Fernandes’ corner.

Denmark equalised in the 56th minute through Rasmus Kristensen’s header from Christian Eriksen’s corner. Ronaldo then put Portugal back in front in the 72nd minute with a goal from Fernandes’ rebound.

Portugal’s lead lasted just four minutes, however, before Eriksen levelled the scores at 2-2 from Patrick Dorgu’s pass. The result gave Denmark a 3-2 aggregate lead. However, Francisco Trincao revived Portugal’s chances with an 86th-minute goal to level the scores at 3-3.

In extra time, Portugal came out aggressive. Just a minute later, Trincao scored his second goal after latching on to the rebound of a Ramos shot. Denmark failed to create any dangerous chances and Portugal sealed the victory in the 115th minute when Ramos finished off a perfect Diogo Jota pass.

The result sends the Seleccao through to the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League as they move closer to the title.