Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has explained his decision to leave Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench throughout the 2-1 UEFA Nations League win over Norway in Oslo on Sunday.
The 41-year-old captain was named among the substitutes and was available for selection, but Gonçalo Ramos started in attack and scored the decisive goal.
Jesus revealed that he had initially intended to bring Ronaldo into the game.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano on X on Monday, the coach said, “I was thinking of Cristiano to come in… but then the game dictates other things,” he explained.
Jesus stressed that the decision was tactical rather than fitness-related.
“I felt it wasn’t the right time to put him in the game. There are still two more games, but it wasn’t to protect him physically. He was ready,” Jesus added.
The coach also disclosed that he and Ronaldo had agreed before the match that the forward would play the final 30 minutes. However, Ramos’ performance, which included a goal and a disallowed effort, and the demands of the match led to other changes.
Portugal made all five substitutions, bringing on Vitinha, Rafael Leão, Rúben Neves, Francisco Trincão and Bernardo Silva, but Ronaldo remained unused.
Jesus indicated that Ronaldo could return to the starting lineup in the next fixtures, including a possible start against Denmark.
The victory leaves Portugal top of their Nations League group after securing consecutive wins.
