Cristiano Ronaldo does not see that the players of Portugal are nervous because they want to deal with their Nations League -similar to Denmark.
Portugal fell 1-0 in the first stage of the Nations League quarterfinals draw against the Danes on Thursday.
Rasmus Hojlund scored in the 78th minute in Copenhagen, where Christian Eriksen had missed a penalty in the first half.
Portugal only managed two shots on goal and only collected 0.51 expected goals, and although Ronaldo admitted that there is tension around the team, he does not think that the nerves are committed.
“There is always an attitude in the national team. Technical aspects, but other things were missing too. That's football, you can't always play well,” said Portugal's captain.
“The atmosphere was not favorable either. I played 50,000 bad games, and so do the team. Our players who are used to playing on large stages have also played bad games. That is part of it.
“It is not necessary to be nervous. The past is the past. I know there are many people who want us to lose, but if the few who are united there and have good energy, I am sure we will get a great result.
“The sky is tense. I don't hide it. We are in a tense moment because we have to win, but that is the great thing about football.
“I call on the fans to be with us. Let them give us their strength because we try to do our best.
AmanhÃo Não Somos APENAS 11 EM Campo, Somos a Força de Um País Inteiro. Vamos Lutar Com Tudo O Que Temos Para Avançar. Juntos! pic.twitter.com/zxmpqr2pel
– Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) March 22, 2025
“I lost games in 90 minutes, but I never lost in the first stage.
“I want to leave with my head high. If I score, I will be happy, but if I don't score, let someone else score, what I want Portugal wins.”
Ronaldo managed only 30 touches in the first stage, less than any other Portugal player to start the game, although he completed all his 24 passes while he had two attempts, although he did not hit the target with any of them.
Portugal had 68 last third entries, but translated that into only 16 touches in the Denmark box.
Ronaldo, however, defended coach Roberto Martinez, who came for criticism.
“I think it is unfair to criticize the coach because we are all in the same boat,” Ronaldo added.
“We lost the game and played badly, but we have the second stage. Think positively and think things will go well.”
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