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Cristiano Ronaldo remains unused substitute in Portugal's win over Norway

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 28, 2026, 10:50 AM

Last updated Sep 28, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo remains unused substitute in Portugal's win over Norway

Summary

Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in the UEFA Nations League on September 28, 2026. Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese captain, started on the bench and did not play at all, marking the first time in over 18 years he was unused despite being available. Coach Jorge Jesus revealed that tactical decisions influenced his choice not to bring Ronaldo on, citing Gonçalo Ramos' effective performance. Ronaldo’s last unused appearance for Portugal was against Switzerland in June 2008 during Euro 2008. He remains part of the team's plans, according to the coach.

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By the Numbers

•Portugal wins 2-1 against Norway in UEFA Nations League
•Cristiano Ronaldo was an unused substitute despite being fit
•This is Ronaldo's first unused appearance since June 2008
•Coach cites tactical reasons for keeping Ronaldo on the bench
•Gonçalo Ramos' play influenced the decision to not substitute Ronaldo

Latest Updates

10:50 AMYahoo Sports — Cristiano Ronaldo’s rare bench milestone in Portugal’s Norway win

What they're saying

"
Cristiano Ronaldo experienced a remarkably rare moment in his international career as Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in the UEFA Nations League.The Portuguese captain started on the bench and, despite b...
— Yahoo Sports

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