Cristiano Ronaldo frustrated after red card against Norway

Cristiano Ronaldo had to surprisingly spend the entire match on the bench in the Nations League game against Norway in Oslo, which triggered an unusual frustration for the 41‑year‑old superstar. The Portuguese captain, who has shaped the national team for years, found himself after the 2‑1 win of his side without playing and stayed away from the fans' celebration after the final whistle.

Ronaldo on the Bench

Cristiano Ronaldo remained unused for Portugal against Norway. The man who has shaped the national team for years found himself, after the appointment of Jorge Jesus, placed on the bench for the entire match. The superstar spent the full 90 minutes on the substitute bench, which is a rarity in his long international career.

Jesus' Tactical Decision

Jorge Jesus decided to start Gonçalo Ramos as the striker, while Ronaldo was initially not considered. The coach explained after the match that he had not initially noticed the situation, but added: “I will talk to him.” The decision not to use a substitute for Ramos was, according to Jesus, based on tactical considerations and not on a physical sparing of the 41‑year‑old attacker.

Portugal Wins Despite Absence

Portugal won the match in Oslo 2‑1. João Félix opened the game for the Portuguese, Erling Haaland equalised after the break, and shortly thereafter Gonçalo Ramos scored the winning goal. Despite Ronaldo's non‑use, the team celebrated the away victory, while the fans praised the performance of the starting eleven.

Jorge Jesus steers Portugal to group lead as Norway stumble in Oslo

Ronaldo Shows Frustration After the Match

After the final whistle, Cristiano Ronaldo did not walk with his teammates and other superstars towards the supporters, which the Portuguese media interpreted as an expression of his frustration. The 41‑year‑old superstar remained distant and left the pitch without the usual greeting to the fans. Photographer Marius Nordnes documented the moment in which the superstar stood on the edge of the action.

Jesus Responds to the Behaviour

Jorge Jesus was questioned after the match about Ronaldo's behaviour and admitted that he had initially not noticed the situation. In a later interview he explained: “J’avais pensé le faire jouer, peut‑être une demi‑heure, but the course of the match decided otherwise.” He emphasized that the decision did not mean that Ronaldo was excluded from the squad.

Jorge Jesus explains why Ronaldo stayed on the bench against Norway

Outlook for the Next Match

For the upcoming duel against Denmark on Thursday, Jesus hinted that Ronaldo could return to the starting eleven. The coach stressed that the confidence in the captain remains unchanged, even though he was not used in the last match. Thus the question remains open as to how the team will shape its next away performance.