Nations League start: Portugal without a goal from Ronaldo, Haaland's brace

Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland presented their teams in the Nations League‑start, but the 41‑year‑old Portuguese remained goalless, while the Norwegian shone with a brace and led his team to victory over Denmark in a dramatic match that decided Group D.

Portugal under new leadership

In the debut of the new coach Jorge Jesus, Portugal secured the first Nations League point against Wales, a 1:0 win thanks to a long‑range shot from Joao Felix in the 22nd minute. Cristiano Ronaldo had several good chances, including a close‑range shot, but a goal eluded him, and another attempt was disallowed in the 59th minute for offside.

The 41‑year‑old striker, who considered retirement after the World Cup exit in the summer, is now back in the starting lineup. With 979 international caps so far, he is approaching the 1,000‑goal milestone, a target he intends to pursue in the upcoming matches.

Haaland shines for Norway

Norway, led by Erling Haaland, won Group D 3:2 against Denmark. Oscar Bobb opened the scoring in the 14th minute, Haaland doubled the lead in the 18th minute after a pass from Martin Ødegaard and scored again in the 74th minute to extend the advantage.

Portugal wins despite tired Ronaldo, Klopp sees Germany cling to Netherlands

The Danes responded through Mikkel Damsgaard (25) and Rasmus Højlund (60). Despite a red card for David Møller Wolfe, Norway had to finish the match with ten men, but still kept the three points.

Other group matches and outlook

In Group B3, Austria beat Israel 3:1; Saied Abu Farchi headed in the 55th minute, but shortly thereafter received a yellow‑red card for removing the corner flag during his celebration. The Austrians used the numerical advantage to secure the win.

Greece turned the game against Serbia in the Group A2 final, winning 2:1 thanks to a goal from Christos Tzolis (74) and a late strike from Tassos Douvikas (90+4). The team coached by Ralf Rangnick is now preparing for the upcoming duel against Germany.

The coaches of Portugal and Norway immediately applied offensive pressure, which explains the early goals and the dynamic flow of both matches.