Danes down Portugal

Sunday, September 03, 2006


Denmark has stunned World Cup semi-finalists Portugal winning 4-2 in a friendly international played on Friday night in Brondby, Denmark.

Martin Jorgensen was the star for the Danes setting up two goals before scoring one himself to sink the highly ranked Portuguese.

The game, set down as a warm-up for the Euro 2008 qualifiers which begin next week, started in dynamic fashion with three goals in the opening 20 minutes.

Jon Dahl Tomasson opened the scoring for Demark in the 14th minute when Jorgensen put a great trough ball for Dennis Rommedahl to set up Tomasson who produced a clinic finish.

Portugal's Ricardo Carvalho equalised just two minutes later when he smashed the ball into the roof of the net after a goal-mouth scramble.

Thomas Kahlenberg restored Denmark's lead after 21 minutes by firing under goalkeeper Ricardo Pereira after Jorgensen had again shown his magic by conjuring up a precise cross.

Portugal seemed certain to level just before the hour when it was awarded a penalty for a misjudged tackle in the penalty area. However, Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo saw his shot saved by Thomas Sorensen.

Carvalho restored Portuguese's hopes just five minutes later he popped up to score his second in the 65th.

Denmark retaliated strongly through Jorgensen who capped a fine display by firing home between Ricardo's legs before substitute Nicklas Bendtner wrapped up the win in added time.

Denmark travel to Iceland for their first Group F match on Wednesday and will take heart from Friday night's win to challenge favourites Spain and Sweden who are also in their group.

Portugal, who visit Finland in Group A also on Wednesday, are favourites to reach the finals with Serbia but will be pushed hard by Poland, Belgium and the Finns in a tough section.