This is why Ronaldo did not participate in the Portugal vs. Norway match

- The Portugal national team defeated the Norway national team 2-1 at the latter's stadium on Sunday, as part of the second round of the UEFA Nations League. The Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo did not participate in the match and sat on the bench despite being fit.

In statements reported by "TNT Sports", Jorge Jesus, the coach of the Portugal national team, commented on Ronaldo's absence: "He did not participate; I was thinking of bringing him in, maybe for half an hour, but the course of the match dictated other matters. I felt that the time was not right to bring him in." He added: "It was a tactical decision; I didn't think it was the perfect moment. I needed a player with different characteristics, but that doesn't mean he is out of options, quite the opposite."

Jesus continued: "There are still two matches left, but that was not to protect him physically, as he was in a condition to play whenever I wanted. He might play against Denmark." He added: "I had already agreed with him to play the last half hour, but the match did not require that. Gonçalo Ramos was playing well and had scored a goal, then another goal was disallowed for him. I felt it was not the right time to take Ramos out."

The 72-year-old coach explained: "As the match continued, it was no longer the right time for Chris to come in; it was time for another player to help maintain balance and secure the result." Jorge Jesus confirmed: "He (Ronaldo) was given the same opportunity as others; everything was equal. When I feel he needs to play, he will play, just like the others."

Cristiano's teammates are at the top of Group D (League A) in the current edition of the UEFA Nations League, with 6 points.