Denmark 2-3 Portugal: Varela keeps Portuguese hopes alive with late winner

Denmark and Portugal produced a thrilling match in Group B, with the Portuguese emerging victorious.

Portugal drew first blood in the 24th minute when Real Madrid defender Pepe headed in from a corner.

Paulo Bento's team then doubled their lead in the 35th minute when Helder Postiga got ahead of his marker to fire in after a low Nani cross.

But Denmark have been plucky throughout, and refused to admit they were beaten. They reduced the deficit in the 40th minute when Nicklas Bentdner headed in from a clever Michael Krohn-Delhi cross.

After being in command for almost the entirety of the first half, Portugal grew wasteful in the second and Denmark's hard work paid off when Bendtner struck again with 10 minutes to go.

Having achieved parity, Denmark found themselves on the back foot as Portugal, stung into action, camped out on the edge of the box.

A draw would have all but eliminated the Portuguese, and in the 87th minute they had their reward when Silvestre Valera lashed in a stunning shot at the second attempt.

WATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Pepe heads home the first

Helder Postiga doubles Portugal's lead

Nicklas Bendtner pulls a goal back for Denmark

Nicklas Bendtner equalises for Denmark

Silvestre Varela scores Portugal's winner

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