Portugal extended their perfect start to the UEFA Nations League, edging out Norway 2-1 in Porto to make it four wins from four games, with Gonçalo Ramos once again proving the hero in Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued absence.
Norway Strike First, Portugal Respond Instantly
Norway drew first blood against the run of play, with Kristoffer Ajer converting a Martin Ødegaard assist in the 36th minute to give the visitors a surprise lead. Portugal’s response was swift and spectacular — just two minutes later, João Cancelo leveled the score in the 38th minute, finishing off a move set up by Nuno Mendes to make it 1-1 heading into the second half.
Ramos Strikes Again
With the match delicately poised, Portugal turned to a combination that has defined their perfect campaign so far. Gonçalo Ramos, continuing to fill the void left by Ronaldo’s continued absence from the squad, netted the winner in the 79th minute from close range, finishing off a slick move involving Vitinha and João Félix to put Portugal back in front at 2-1. Portugal were reduced to ten men late on when Francisco Conceição picked up a second yellow card in the 86th minute, but the hosts held firm to see out the remainder of the match.
A Ronaldo-less Run Continues
The win continues a remarkable pattern for Portugal since Ronaldo’s departure from the squad. Having been substituted in the opening win over Wales and then left out entirely for the trip to Norway earlier in the campaign, Ronaldo hasn’t featured since — yet Portugal have shown no ill effects, following up a 4-2 win in Denmark with this latest victory to stay perfect through four matches.
What It Means
This result keeps Portugal top of Group A4 with a perfect 12 points from four games, a four-point cushion that leaves them firmly in control of their own destiny as they push toward the knockout stages. For Norway, the defeat continues a disappointing campaign, leaving them on just 3 points from 4 games and facing an uphill battle to qualify from the group.
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