Norway Also Eager to See How Portugal Perform Without Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence has added another layer of intrigue to Portugal’s Nations League campaign, with Norway midfielder Patrick Berg admitting that they are also interested to see how the European champions perform without their iconic captain.

“I have a lot of respect for Ronaldo. But now we have to wait and see how Portugal perform without him,” Berg said ahead of Norway’s upcoming clash with Portugal.

Portugal currently sit top of Nations League League A Group 4 with nine points from three matches. Denmark, Norway and Wales are all level on three points.

Ronaldo Was There, But Did Not Play

Ronaldo was included in Portugal’s squad for their previous meeting with Norway but remained on the bench for the entire match. Portugal eventually secured a 2-1 victory through goals from Joao Felix and Goncalo Ramos.

The situation surrounding the 41-year-old forward became more complicated in the days that followed. Ronaldo missed training for two consecutive days, while reports of tension with head coach Jorge Jesus added to the speculation.

He then left Portugal’s training camp on Wednesday, a day before the team’s match against Denmark. Ronaldo later said he would explain the real reason for his departure when the time was right.

Portugal Won Comfortably Without Their Captain

Ronaldo’s absence did not appear to disrupt Portugal against Denmark. They produced a strong performance and claimed a convincing 4-2 victory.

That result has only intensified the debate over how Portugal will perform without their long-time leader. Norway now have another opportunity to test the Ronaldo-less Portugal side.

Asked whether Portugal might be a stronger team without Ronaldo, Berg said it was too early to draw conclusions.

“It is difficult to answer that question because we haven’t really seen Portugal without him. Everyone knows about Ronaldo’s career and everything he has achieved. He is one of the greatest players in the history of football.”

Ronaldo remains Portugal’s record international goalscorer with 146 goals. His absence, however, has brought renewed attention to his role within the national team and the direction Portugal may take as the current Nations League campaign continues.