Portugal Secures Quarter-Final Spot in Nations League Despite Ronaldo's Absence
Portugal secured their fourth win in as many matches on Sunday against Norway (2-1), earning them a place in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Cristiano Ronaldo was not present, but Portugal maintained a perfect record in the Nations League, securing their fourth consecutive victory at home against Norway (2-1). With 12 points, Jorge Jesus's team has guaranteed a spot in the Nations League quarter-finals, scheduled for March, with two group matches still to play against Denmark (November 14) and Wales (November 17).
The Seleçao, two-time winners of the competition since its inception in 2018, came from behind against the Norwegian side, featuring Erling Haaland who remained scoreless and was substituted due to injury. João Cancelo scored a spectacular goal, and Gonçalo Ramos also found the net.
The Road Ahead: With or Without Ronaldo?
The Portuguese squad showed resilience amidst recent off-field developments concerning Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old forward announced on Wednesday that he had left the national team's training camp. He discovered during a press conference that manager Jorge Jesus intended to bench him for the second consecutive match.
Ronaldo, Portugal's record holder for appearances and goals (234 caps and 146 goals), a past winner of Euro 2016 and the 2019 and 2025 Nations League titles, has stated he will explain his departure. He has not yet announced his international retirement and has promised further details in due course.
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