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Football fans were expecting a Cristiano Ronaldo-Erling Haaland showdown in Oslo, but the much-anticipated battle never materialised. Ronaldo was left out of Portugal’s starting XI and remained on the bench throughout, while Haaland scored for Norway. Portugal, however, came away with a 2-1 victory.
Goncalo Ramos scored the winner as Portugal secured their second straight victory in the UEFA Nations League. They had beaten Wales 1-0 in their previous match, with Ronaldo playing but missing several chances.
Portugal took the lead in the 17th minute when Joao Felix produced a fine finish from Pedro Neto’s pass. It was Felix’s second consecutive Nations League goal after he scored the winner against Wales.
Norway levelled six minutes after half-time through Haaland. Martin Odegaard’s free-kick was initially saved by Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa, but Haaland reacted quickly to score from close range. It was his record 22nd Nations League goal.
Portugal regained the lead just three minutes later after a costly mistake by Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland. His attempted pass from deep went straight to Ramos, who rounded the goalkeeper and chipped the ball into the net.
Ramos appeared to score again in the 59th minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
Ronaldo’s absence was the main talking point after the match. Portugal coach Jorge Jesus said he had considered bringing the veteran forward on in the second half, but decided against making the change because Ramos was performing well.
Ramos ultimately justified his selection by scoring the winning goal as Portugal held on for three points.
