Norway suffered a third successive Nations League defeat on Sunday, losing 2-1 to Portugal in their Group A4 tie. The match was marked by an injury concern for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who limped off in the 67th minute. He was replaced by Jorgen Strand Larsen. Haaland has scored seven goals so far this season, and his club will be awaiting further news on his injury.
The hosts, Norway, took an early lead through a 36th-minute goal from Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer. He controlled Martin Odegaard’s cross on his chest before hitting a sweet half-volley into the top corner from the edge of the box. However, their lead was short-lived, as Portugal equalized two minutes later through a stunning shot from Joao Cancelo.
Cancelo's goal was scored on the bounce from a similar distance from Nuno Mendes’ long throw-in. Haaland went close for Norway, dragging an effort wide, before he was substituted. The match ultimately ended with a late winner for Portugal, scored by Goncalo Ramos in the 78th minute. Ramos stabbed in from close range from Joao Felix’s lay-off to seal a fourth successive win in the competition for Portugal.
Portugal ended the match with 10 men after winger Francisco Conceicao was sent off in the 87th minute for two quickfire bookings for dissent. This was their third game in a row without Cristiano Ronaldo in the team, after the country’s record scorer left the camp last week after being dropped. Portugal's boss, Jorge Jesus, plans to discuss the matter with Ronaldo, but said on Sunday: “If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team.”
The win for Portugal booked their place in the last eight of the Nations League and left them six points clear of second-placed Denmark, who beat Wales 1-0. Norway, on the other hand, are bottom of the group with two games left in the group stage. Denmark's win was a crucial one in the group, as they look to challenge Portugal for the top spot.
Meanwhile, Manchester City, Haaland's club, will be keeping a close eye on his injury. They are set to face Liverpool on Sunday in the Premier League, their first game since being found guilty of all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations. The club has lodged an appeal against the charges.
The injury concern for Haaland comes at a crucial time for Manchester City, as they look to maintain their form in the Premier League. With seven goals so far this season, Haaland's contribution has been significant, and his absence could be felt if he is unable to play against Liverpool. The club will be awaiting further news on his injury and its severity.
Key points
- Erling Haaland suffered an injury in Norway's 2-1 loss to Portugal.
- Portugal booked their place in the last eight of the Nations League with the win.
- Manchester City will be keeping a close eye on Haaland's injury ahead of their Premier League match against Liverpool.
