Ronaldo benched as Portugal beat Norway, sparking post‑match controversy
Portugal secured a 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo on Sunday, but the win was eclipsed by the decision to keep 41‑year‑old Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench. Coach Jorge Jesus opted for a youthful attacking line‑up, starting Gonçalo Ramos in place of the veteran forward.
João Félix opened the scoring in the 17th minute, only for Erling Haaland to level for Norway six minutes after the break. Ramos restored the lead shortly thereafter, and Portugal held on to move three points clear at the top of Nations League Group D.
Jesus defended his choice, saying, "Each game has a strategy and I have to choose the best players for the game. I thought about bringing Ronaldo on in the second half, but given the result, it wasn’t the right time." He added that the decision does not preclude Ronaldo’s involvement against Denmark, noting, "I can make four or five changes against Denmark if needed."
The benching triggered a backlash when Ronaldo, unlike his teammates, headed straight to the dressing room after the final whistle. Portuguese outlet A Bola reported that he did not join the squad in the centre of the pitch to thank the travelling fans, a move that many supporters interpreted as a snub.
Erling Haaland draws level and Gonçalo Ramos restores the lead in Oslo
When asked if he expected Ronaldo to thank the crowd, Jesus replied, "I believe what they say, but I didn’t even notice it. Only he can answer that. The fact is, just because he didn’t play doesn’t mean I don’t count on him. I count on him completely." He said he intends to speak with the captain about the incident, emphasizing the collective nature of the national team.
Fans and pundits have been quick to criticize both the coach’s tactical gamble and Ronaldo’s reaction, arguing that the star’s presence on the bench should have been accompanied by a public gesture of appreciation. The controversy adds pressure ahead of Portugal’s next fixture against Denmark at Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday.
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Both Jesus and Ronaldo remain tight‑lipped about the exact nature of their upcoming conversation, but the coach reiterated his confidence in the veteran’s role, stating, "I told him before the game he wouldn’t start, but I would bring him on. Football dictates things, and I will decide when his characteristics are needed."
The outcome of the Denmark match will likely determine whether Ronaldo returns to the starting XI or remains a strategic substitute, a decision that will be closely watched by a global audience still divided over the Oslo episode.