Portugal claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Norway in their Nations League Group A4 encounter. The match, played on October 5, 2026, saw Goncalo Ramos score a late winner for Portugal. This result helped Portugal book their place in the last eight of the competition. Norway, on the other hand, suffered their third successive Nations League defeat. The match was marked by an injury concern for Norway as striker Erling Haaland limped off in the 67th minute.
The visitors took the lead in the 36th minute through a stunning strike from Kristoffer Ajer. The Brentford defender 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, Portugal quickly responded when Joao Cancelo smashed home a shot on the bounce from a similar distance from Nuno Mendes' long throw-in. The hosts had to come from behind to level the score.
Erling Haaland, who has scored seven goals so far this season, sparked injury concerns as he limped off. The Manchester City striker beckoned to the bench to be substituted in the 67th minute. His club will await further news on his injury as they prepare for a trip to Liverpool on Sunday in the Premier League. This match will be their first game since being found guilty of all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations.
Despite Haaland's departure, Norway continued to press, but it was Portugal who sealed the win. Goncalo Ramos stabbed in from close range from Joao Felix's lay-off with 11 minutes left. This goal proved to be the winner, securing a fourth successive win for Portugal in the competition. Norway's defeat leaves them bottom of the group.
The match ended with Portugal having a player sent off, as winger Francisco Conceicao received two quickfire bookings for dissent in the 87th minute. This was Portugal's 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.
Portugal's win has put them six points clear of second-placed Denmark, who beat Wales 1-0. With two games left in the group stage, defending Nations League champions Portugal are in a strong position. Norway, on the other hand, will look to bounce back from their third successive defeat.
Jorge Jesus remains optimistic about Cristiano Ronaldo's potential return to the national team. He stated that if Ronaldo wants to return, he will be welcomed back. The focus now shifts to Portugal's upcoming matches and their preparations for the next round of the Nations League.
Key points
- Portugal secured a 2-1 win over Norway in their Nations League Group A4 match.
- Erling Haaland suffered an injury concern during the match, limping off in the 67th minute.
- Portugal's win put them six points clear of second-placed Denmark in Group A4.
