Portugal will travel to Oslo without Bruno Fernandes on Sunday night, while João Neves is in line for a starting role after being carefully managed in the opening Nations League match.
Portugal protect key midfield players before Norway test
- Portugal began their Nations League campaign with a 1-0 win over Wales on Thursday. Bruno Fernandes picked up a minor problem during that match, while Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted in the 67th minute.
- João Neves, who arrived on international duty carrying a small issue from Paris Saint-Germain, remained on the bench against Wales before making only a late appearance. The midfielder underwent an MRI scan after speaking with Portugal’s coaching staff.
- Portugal’s coach told Neves that he would not be used from the start against Wales, but indicated that the PSG player would begin the second Nations League fixture against Norway.
- Bruno Fernandes will not be risked in Oslo, with Portugal instead targeting his return for Thursday’s match in Denmark. “I would rather avoid taking a risk with Bruno Fernandes in this game and have him available in Denmark,” the coach said.
Ronaldo decision delayed until final training
Questions about Ronaldo dominated Portugal’s pre-match media duties in Norway ahead of the 20:45 kick-off against Erling Haaland’s side. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner could be left among the substitutes, although the final decision will follow Saturday evening’s training session.
“He is not the age of João Neves,” Portugal’s coach said. “Tonight’s training will give us some indications, and then I will speak with him.”
Nuno Mendes is available for the match despite being taken off during the second half against Wales because of fatigue. The PSG left-back could therefore feature in Oslo as Portugal look to manage a demanding international window without unnecessarily stretching their injured or tired players.
