Portugal remains undefeated in the Nations League despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence. The Portuguese national team defeated Norway 2-1 and secured its fourth victory in four matches in Group A4, a result that also guaranteed its spot in the quarterfinals.
Gonçalo Ramos was once again the hero, scoring the winning goal in the 79th minute following a play involving Vitinha and João Félix. The forward is helping Portugal maintain its winning streak without Cristiano Ronaldo, who has not played since the tournament’s opening match.
Ronaldo played in Portugal’s first match, a 1-0 victory over Wales, before being substituted—precisely by Ramos. He then watched the second match against Norway from the bench and subsequently left the team’s training camp.
Without their captain, Portugal has not lost its rhythm. They defeated Norway 2-1, beat Denmark 4-2, and once again prevailed 2-1 over the Norwegians to maintain their perfect record.
Norway took the lead in the 36th minute thanks to Kristoffer Ajer, who connected with a spectacular half-volley into the far corner after controlling a free kick from Martin Ødegaard. Portugal’s response came just two minutes later, when João Cancelo tied the game with a similar shot.
Ramos stepped up in the closing minutes to turn the score around, and Portugal had to hold on with one fewer player after Francisco Conceição was sent off for receiving a second yellow card.
Erling Haaland was also unable to score and was substituted in the 67th minute. The forward has now scored 65 goals in 59 appearances.
In the other Group A4 match, Denmark defeated Wales 1-0 on a late penalty kick converted by Rasmus Højlund. The Danes are second in the group with two wins, while Wales and Norway each have one win.
Greece Holds Germany to a Draw Again
Germany also failed to celebrate on Sunday, drawing 0-0 against Greece in Thessaloniki.
The Greek team, which had secured its first victory over Germany last week, once again made life difficult for Jürgen Klopp’s side.
Germany had more possession, more passes, and more scoring chances, but couldn’t find a way to win.
Klopp tried to shake up his attack during the final half-hour by bringing in Nick Woltemade and Said El Mala, who replaced Jonathan Burkardt and Lennart Karl. However, the clearest chance of the closing minutes went to Georgios Masouras, who came close to securing the win for the home team.
After four matches in charge of Germany, Klopp has only one win to his name.
In the other Group A2 match, the Netherlands defeated Serbia 2-1. With these results, the Netherlands and Greece each have eight points, Germany has five, and Serbia remains winless.
Ireland and Israel Draw 1-1
Ireland and Israel drew 1-1 in Backa Topola, Serbia, in a match marked by a tense atmosphere.
Both teams wore black armbands. The Irish players once again bowed their heads during Israel’s national anthem—a gesture they had already made in their first match to protest Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The Football Association of Ireland maintained its participation in the matches, and the players ultimately voted to honor their commitments.
For their part, the Israeli players wore black armbands in memory of those killed during the Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
Other results from Sunday’s matches
League A – Group A4
- Portugal 2-1 Norway
- Wales 0-1 Denmark
League A – Group A2
- Netherlands 2-1 Serbia
- Greece 0-0 Germany
League B – Group B3
- Kosovo 1-1 Austria
- Republic of Ireland 1-1 Israel
League D – Group D2
- Azerbaijan 1-0 Lithuania
League D – Group D1
- Malta 1-0 Andorra
