Sport
CROSS-SPECTRUMBROAD COVERAGE
Portugal coach sticks with benching of Ronaldo for Norway clash
Coach Jorge Jesus said his decision to leave Cristiano Ronaldo out of the lineup against Norway remains unchanged, even after Ronaldo left the national team camp following the match. The coach indicated the choice was based on performance considerations. Previously, Ronaldo walked out of training before the Denmark game, and Jesus said he would decide his playing time for the upcoming fixture, with Gonçalo Ramos set to start. Portugal sit atop Group A4 of the Nations League with six points after victories over Wales and Norway, while Denmark trail with three points.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 6h later
- Coverage peaked at 9 outlets in a single hour
Why it matters
The dispute could affect Portugal’s lineup and its chances to advance in the Nations League.
How this story developed
- Sep 30 Portugal seeks third win against Denmark in Nations League showdown at Copenhagen
- Oct 1 The 41-year-old forward walked out of the squad following tension with coach Jorge Jesus, reportedly after being benched against Norway at Ullevaal. Analysts say the incident could dominate how his international legacy is viewed. Portuguese media describe it as the biggest crisis the team has faced in two decades, with even Prime Minister Luís Montenegro contacting the parties involved.
- Oct 2 Prime Minister Luís Montenegro phoned both Ronaldo and federation president Pedro Proença after the departure.
- Oct 3 Jesus reiterated the decision to keep Ronaldo on the bench for the Norway game.
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