Portugal secured a place in the Nations League quarter-finals with a 2–1 victory over Norway in Porto on Sunday, 4 October.
Gonçalo Ramos scored the winner in the 79th minute after João Cancelo had cancelled out Kristoffer Ajer’s opener.
Norway’s evening also brought questions about Erling Haaland’s fitness. The Manchester City striker signalled to the bench before being replaced by Jørgen Strand Larsen in the 67th minute.
Coach explains Haaland’s playing time
Haaland’s departure prompted reports of an injury concern, but Norway coach Ståle Solbakken said they had discussed his minutes before the match.
Norwegian newspaper VG, reporting from the post-match press conference, said Solbakken had hoped Haaland could play around an hour following their conversation the previous day.
The coach also discussed the workload facing players after four Nations League matches in a short period.
That explanation provides important context for the substitution. It does not establish a medical diagnosis, and the material reviewed contains no confirmed recovery timetable or decision on Haaland’s availability for Manchester City.
Ramos completes Portugal’s comeback
The Norwegian Football Federation records Ajer’s opening goal in the 36th minute and Cancelo’s equaliser two minutes later.
Ramos then put Portugal ahead with 11 minutes of normal time remaining. The hosts finished with ten players after Francisco Conceição was sent off in the 86th minute, but held on for the victory.
UEFA confirmed that the result secured Portugal’s quarter-final place.
Third successive defeat for Norway
Norway have now lost three consecutive Nations League matches, following defeats by Portugal at home and Wales away.
For Manchester City supporters, any further assessment of Haaland’s condition will be the next development to watch. His substitution alone is insufficient evidence to describe him as facing a lengthy absence.
