Portugal beaten 1-3 by Denmark in European League opener

Portugal fell 1-3 to Denmark in the European League first‑round match on Friday.

Coach João José saw his side unable to overturn an early deficit at the Arena Fyn in Odense.

Denmark opened the scoring quickly and kept the initiative throughout the first half.

Portugal rallied after the tough start but could not match the hosts' consistency.

The loss registers Portugal's poorest opening performance in the competition's history.

The defeat highlights the challenge ahead for the Portuguese side in Group A.

Portugal must regroup before their next European League fixture.

José will need to adjust tactics to avoid similar early setbacks.