Cristiano Ronaldo remained on the bench for the entire match for the first time in 18 years as Portugal secured a 2–1 victory over Norway in the Nations League.
The 41-year-old captain was not brought on by head coach Jorge Jesus, while after the final whistle, Ronaldo immediately headed to the dressing room and did not join his teammates in greeting the Portuguese supporters who had travelled to Norway.
Jorge Jesus said he had not noticed Ronaldo leaving the pitch area early, but confirmed that he would have a private conversation with the veteran forward about his responsibilities as captain of the national team.
“I didn’t see that he left early. I will speak to him privately about his responsibilities as captain.”
The Portuguese manager also defended his decision not to bring Ronaldo onto the pitch, explaining that the way the game was unfolding did not require a striker with the Portuguese star’s particular profile.
“Just because he didn’t play today doesn’t mean I don’t count on him.”
Despite being left out against Norway, Ronaldo remains an important part of Portugal’s plans and is expected to be available for their next Nations League fixture against Denmark.