The Official Reason: A Strategic Rest
The primary reason for Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from the starting eleven was a strategic decision by new Portugal manager Jorge Jesus. With no injury reported, the move was purely about managing the 41-year-old superstar's workload. Just three days
prior, Ronaldo had played approximately 70 minutes in a demanding 1-0 victory over Wales. Coach Jesus stated he felt Ronaldo could not start two intense matches in such a short period, opting to preserve his energy for a packed international window that includes four games. This decision, described as "load management," prioritized Ronaldo's long-term fitness over a single start.
A Tactical Choice for the Team
Beyond simple rest, the decision was also tactical. Coach Jesus hinted at this before the match, noting the difference in recovery and stamina between a veteran like Ronaldo and younger players on the squad. By starting Gonçalo Ramos up front, Jesus aimed to inject different characteristics into the attack against a formidable Norwegian side led by Erling Haaland. The move was seen as an opportunity to test Portugal's depth and give other talented forwards, like Ramos, João Félix, and Francisco Conceição, a chance to shine on a big stage. It was a calculated gamble that showed the coach's confidence in the entire squad, not just its iconic captain.
An Unusual, but Not Unprecedented, Situation
While seeing Ronaldo on the bench is rare, it's not entirely without precedent. However, being an unused substitute for a full competitive match was a significant moment. The last time Ronaldo was an available substitute and did not play a single minute for Portugal was 18 years ago, during a Euro 2008 group stage match against Switzerland when the team had already qualified for the next round. This time, the context was different. Coach Jesus had initially planned to bring Ronaldo on for the final 30 minutes, but explained post-match that the flow of the game, especially after Gonçalo Ramos scored the winning goal, meant it was no longer necessary.
How Did Portugal Fare Without Him?
The coach's gamble ultimately paid off. Portugal secured a vital 2-1 victory away in Oslo. After Erling Haaland equalized for Norway, it was Ronaldo's replacement, Gonçalo Ramos, who scored the decisive goal, validating the manager's tactical selection. The victory demonstrated that Portugal is capable of winning tough matches even without their all-time leading goalscorer leading the line from the start. It was a result that not only earned three crucial points but also boosted the confidence of the squad's younger attacking talents and gave the manager more flexibility for future fixtures.
What's Next for Ronaldo and Portugal?
Fans disappointed not to see Ronaldo in action won't have to wait long. Coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that the plan is to use Ronaldo across the four-game international window, even if it means some appearances come from the bench. With a match against Denmark on October 1, followed by a return fixture at home against Norway on October 4, Ronaldo is expected to feature prominently again very soon. The decision to rest him against Norway in Oslo was a calculated move to ensure he remains sharp and available for the remainder of a gruelling Nations League campaign, reinforcing his continued importance to the team's ambitions.
