Portugal calls up defender Semedo for Euro qualifiers

LISBON, Portugal (AP) - Benfica defender Nelson Semedo has earned his first call-up for Portugal ahead of the European Championship qualifiers against Denmark and Serbia, when Cristiano Ronaldo's team needs just one point to book its place at next year's tournament.

The 21-year-old Semedo has never played for Portugal's junior teams.

Tiago returns to midfield after a suspension, with playmaker Joao Moutinho and defender Fabio Coentrao back from injury. Central defender Pepe remains unavailable with a muscle strain.

Portugal hosts Denmark next Thursday and plays in Serbia Oct. 11.

Portugal is top of Group I with 15 points from six games. Denmark is second, two points behind after seven games.

____

Portugal:

Goalkeepers: Rui Patricio (Sporting Lisbon), Anthony Lopes (Lyon), Ventura (Belenenses)

Defenders: Bruno Alves (Fenerbahce), Cedric Soares (Southampton), Jose Fonte (Southampton), Eliseu (Benfica), Nelson Semedo (Benfica), Ricardo Carvalho (Monaco), Fabio Coentrao (Monaco), Neto (Zenit St. Petersburg)

Midfielders: Miguel Veloso (Dynamo Kiev), Bernardo Silva (Monaco), Andre Andre (FC Porto), Joao Moutinho (Monaco), Rafa Silva (Braga), Danilo Pereira (FC Porto), Joao Mario (Sporting Lisbon), Tiago (Atletico Madrid)

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Danny (Zenit St. Petersburg), Eder (Swansea), Nani (Fenerbahce), Ricardo Quaresma (Besiktas)