Rasmus Højlund came off the bench to fire Denmark to a 1-0 victory over Portugal in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final at Parken Stadium.
The Manchester United striker netted the decisive goal in the 78th minute, calmly finishing Andreas Skov Olsen’s cross. Højlund marked his goal with Cristiano Ronaldo’s signature ‘Siu’ celebration but insisted it was a tribute, not mockery.
“It was not to mock him. He has been a great inspiration in my football career,” Højlund told Danish broadcaster TV2.
Denmark had earlier missed a golden opportunity to take the lead when Christian Eriksen’s penalty was saved by Diogo Costa after Renato Veiga handled in the box.
Portugal, led by Ronaldo, struggled to create chances, with the veteran forward’s best effort—a header—sailing wide.
Denmark, under new coach Brian Riemer, dominated and will head to Lisbon for Sunday’s second leg full of confidence as they seek a semi-final spot.
The loser of the tie will move into Scotland’s World Cup qualifying group, alongside Greece and Belarus.
