Portugal pay tribute to Ronaldo but fall 4-1 to Denmark in Nations League

Portugal played their first match since Cristiano Ronaldo's international retirement on Saturday, paying an emotional tribute to their former captain before falling to a 4-1 defeat against Denmark in the UEFA Nations League in Braga.

Before kick-off at Estádio Municipal, players and mascots walked out wearing the number seven and Ronaldo's name on their shirts. Supporters held up a large banner reading “Thank you, captain” and applause rolled around the ground as the stadium clock reached seven minutes. The Portuguese football federation has also unveiled a permanent adjustment to the number seven shirt as a lasting honour to the forward's 23-year international career.

On the pitch, Denmark were the better side from the start. Pierre-Emile Højbjerg put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute. Rasmus Højlund doubled the lead shortly after the restart with a superb volley, then added a powerful third goal seven minutes later. Joachim Andersen headed a fourth, and Bernardo Silva's late consolation could not prevent a heavy home defeat.

Portugal had already secured their place in the quarter-finals before this match, having won their first four group games. Denmark now sit second on nine points from five fixtures and need only a draw against Norway on Tuesday to progress. Earlier on Saturday, Norway beat Wales 3-1 in Oslo.

Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in 2003 and scored 146 goals in 234 international appearances, both world records. He helped the country win Euro 2016. His international career ended after a public disagreement over team selection in September, and he announced his retirement last week.