Cristiano Ronaldo starts on bench as Portugal beat Norway

Portugal moved alone to the top of Nations League Group 4 in League A after extending their perfect start, with Cristiano Ronaldo beginning the match among the substitutes. The decision did not prevent the holders from securing a second successive victory.

Portugal won 2-1 against Norway, with João Félix breaking the deadlock in the 17th minute. Gonçalo Ramos led the attack in Ronaldo’s place alongside Félix in Jorge Jesus’ diamond midfield system. Pedro Neto supplied the final pass after Nuno Mendes had helped create the opening.

Norway levelled six minutes after half-time when Erling Haaland reacted first following a free-kick that Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa had failed to clear. Ramos restored Portugal’s advantage three minutes later, lifting the ball over Ørjan Nyland after the Norwegian goalkeeper gave possession away while attempting to play out.

Rafael Leão appeared to add a third after another mistake by Nyland, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a video review. Norway threatened during the closing stages, yet Portugal held on to remain unbeaten in the group and follow their opening win over Wales with another three points.