Portugal without Ronaldo leads Nations League after win in Norway

Portugal celebrated a victory in the second Nations League match in Oslo, taking the lead in Group A4. Coach Jorge Jesus guided the team to success without the big star Cristiano Ronaldo, while João Félix already scored the first goal in the 17th minute.

Portugal without Ronaldo dominates Nations League

Under Jorge Jesus' leadership, Portugal prevailed in Norway and took the lead in the group. The photo by Marius Nordnes shows that superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was only on the bench and did not play a decisive role in the match. Instead, other attacking players bore the responsibility.

Portugal got off to a good start when João Félix, in the 17th minute, scored with a placed finish from the edge of the penalty area to make it 1‑0. That goal was already decisive in the win against Wales, establishing Félix as a difference‑maker.

Norway's chances and Haaland's goal

Norway, especially through Erling Haaland, had several good chances, but Diogo Costa saved multiple shots and Ruben Dias performed a spectacular rescue. Shortly after the break, Haaland scored from close range to make it 1‑1, his 65th international goal.

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

A little later, goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made a costly mistake by playing the ball directly into the hands of Gonçalo Ramos, who safely tapped in the empty net. The 2‑1 put Portugal finally in the lead. Another attempt by Ramos was disallowed for offside.

The match showed that Portugal can win even without record scorer Cristiano Ronaldo. Players such as Gonçalo Ramos, Bruno Fernandes and Nuno Mendes regularly provide decisive actions. The Seleção now has a wide arsenal of attacking weapons.

Erling Haaland draws level and Gonçalo Ramos restores the lead in Oslo

With two wins from two games, Jorge Jesus' start as national coach has been excellent; Portugal leads the group after victories over Wales and Norway. For Norway, a run of 14 home games without defeat came to an end. The evening proved that the team can be successful even without its biggest star.