Sun Mar 23 23:00:34 UTC 2025: ## Portugal Edges Past Denmark in Thrilling Nations League Quarterfinal

**Lisbon, Portugal** – Portugal overcame a first-leg deficit to defeat Denmark 5-2 after extra time in a dramatic Nations League quarterfinal clash, securing a 5-3 aggregate victory and a semifinal berth against Germany.

Cristiano Ronaldo, despite missing an early penalty, played a key role in Portugal’s comeback. An own goal by Joachim Andersen gave Portugal the lead before Rasmus Kristensen equalized for Denmark. Ronaldo then restored Portugal’s advantage, only to see Christian Eriksen put Denmark ahead on aggregate. However, substitute Francisco Trincao emerged as the hero, scoring twice – once in regular time and again in extra time – to turn the tide. Goncalo Ramos added a late fifth goal to seal the victory.

The match was filled with drama, including a crucial early penalty miss by Ronaldo and a heroic defensive effort from Denmark, which ultimately proved insufficient against Portugal’s late surge. The win sends Portugal to the semifinals to face Germany, who themselves advanced after a 3-3 draw with Italy (5-4 aggregate).

Elsewhere in the Nations League quarterfinals:

* **Germany** drew 3-3 with Italy but progressed 5-4 on aggregate, securing their first-ever semifinal appearance and hosting rights for the remainder of the tournament.
* **Spain** defeated the Netherlands 5-4 on penalties after a 3-3 draw (5-5 on aggregate).
* **France** edged past Croatia 5-4 on penalties following a 2-2 aggregate scoreline.

The Nations League semifinals will take place in June in Germany, with Portugal facing Germany and Spain facing France.

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