Portugal supporters used their Nations League match against Denmark to show public backing for both Jorge Jesus and Cristiano Ronaldo, as tensions between the Al Nassr manager and his captain continued to dominate attention.
Portugal beat Denmark 4-2 at Parken in Copenhagen on Thursday in the third round of the competition’s group stage. The match was the national side’s first since the latest dispute between Ronaldo and Jesus emerged.
Ronaldo, Portugal’s captain, left his country’s training camp in Copenhagen on Wednesday evening following the disagreement with Jesus. Despite the dispute, sections of the crowd made clear that their support for the manager remained strong.
Footage published by Bleacher Report showed several Portugal fans wearing shirts marked with the message “We love you Jesus” in English. The gesture was intended to show their backing for the coach.
Other supporters displayed a separate message featuring Ronaldo’s name alongside a heart symbol, signalling their support for the Al Nassr forward.
Portugal have made a perfect start to their Nations League campaign, collecting nine points from three victories over Wales, Norway and Denmark. They have not dropped points in any match under Jesus.
Jesus’ side will face Norway again next Sunday in the fourth round of the Nations League group stage. Victory would secure direct qualification for the semi-finals, with Portugal able to progress without waiting for the final two group matches.
Jesus said before the Denmark fixture that he would give a full account of what happened between him and Ronaldo after the Norway match.
The dispute has therefore continued to be a focus around Portugal’s campaign, even as results on the pitch have remained positive. The reaction in the stands against Denmark reflected the two strands of support, with some fans siding with Jesus and others showing their loyalty to Ronaldo.