Portugal starts life without Cristiano Ronaldo as they face Denmark in the League of Nations.
Ronaldo sensationally left the squad this week after a falling out with coach Jorge Jesús, which looks set to end his storied international career.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker has scored an incredible 146 goals in 234 games for his country, but it was sat out the 2-1 win against Norway.
Ronaldo did not train on Monday and Tuesday, prompting confrontational talks with Jesus and Portugal Football Association (FPF) president Pedro Proença.
Before leaving Copenhagen on his private jet, Ronaldo wrote on Instagram: “After the press conference of the national team and after a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have made the decision to leave the training camp of the national team.
“In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I always dedicated myself.
“Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates, without exception.”
Denmark team news
Patrick Dorgu has dropped out of the Denmark squad after picking up a hamstring injury while Rasmus Hojlund leads the forward line.
Denmark: Hermansen; Kristensen, Andersen, Provstgaard, Mæhle; Højbjerg, Wheelman; Daghim, Damsgaard, Daramy; Højlund.
Portugal team news
Far from the unknown surrounding Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes returns to Portugal after missing the Norway game as Nuno Mendes starts at left-back.
Ex-Milan winger Rafael Leao starts in Ronaldo’s number seven shirt in a strong attack, while Manchester City defender Ruben Dias leads the team.
Portugal: coast; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; R. Neves, Vitinha, Fernandes; NETO, Ramos, Leão.
League A – Group D
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position 1, 2: Play Offs: Quarter-finals
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position 3: Relegation Playoffs
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position 4: Descent
Where to watch Denmark vs Portugal: TV broadcasts and online
Denmark-Portugal kicks off at 7.45pm UK time on Thursday. It will be available to stream on Amazon Prime Video for the pay-per-view price of £2.49.
