Portugal bench Ronaldo ahead of clash with Norway

Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo and, at 41, was left on the bench by Portugal manager Jorge Jesus before the start of the night match against Norway. The surprise came just before the kickoff and raises doubts about the expected goal duel with Erling Haaland.

Jorge Jesus' Decision

Jorge Jesus explained that Ronaldo had played almost 70 minutes at Alvalade three days earlier and that he could not be a starter in two consecutive matches. “We want Ronaldo in these four games, even if it’s just a few minutes,” he added.

On Thursday Ronaldo began Portugal’s 1-0 victory over Wales, his first start after two years without being a substitute since September 8, 2024. At 41 he remains key.

In Oslo, Jesus lines up Gonçalo Ramos, Joao Félix and Joao Neves, leaving Ronaldo on the bench.

Norway, coached by Stale Solbakken, keeps Erling Haaland, who scored a brace in the 3-2 win over Denmark.

Portugal will travel to Denmark next Thursday and will host Norway on October 4; the coach wants Ronaldo to play, even if only for minutes. The information comes from EFE, via correspondent Jordi Archs, in the International Football section, describing the big surprise in Oslo.