Kenya Sport

Portugal Player Ratings After 2-1 Win Over Norway in Nations League

Portugal extended their perfect record in the UEFA Nations League Group 4 with a gritty 2-1 victory over Norway at Estadio do Dragao. Despite Francisco Conceicao's late red card, goals from Joao Cancelo and Goncalo Ramos helped overturn an early Norwegian lead.

The match started cautiously until Kristoffer Ajer gave Norway the advantage in the 36th minute, heading in a cross from Martin Oedegaard. Portugal responded quickly, and two minutes later, Cancelo equalised after a smart assist from Nuno Mendes. The teams went into halftime tied at 1-1.

Portugal dominated possession in the second half, registering an expected goals (xG) of 1.95 compared to Norway's 0.59. Their pressure paid off in the 79th minute when Ramos finished a move set up by Joao Felix. However, the game took a tense turn when Conceicao picked up two quick yellow cards and was sent off in the 86th minute. Portugal had to hold on with ten men but managed to secure the win despite a late booking for captain Bruno Fernandes.

Player Ratings

  • Diogo Costa - 6/10: Faced little trouble as Norway only had three shots on target. Not at fault for the goal, which was more about defensive positioning than his error. Distribution was solid, helping maintain 58% possession.
  • Joao Cancelo - 8/10: Showed attacking flair and scored the equaliser that calmed Portugal’s nerves. Despite an early yellow card, he stayed dangerous until his substitution around the 60-minute mark.
  • Ruben Dias - 7/10: Tasked with containing Erling Haaland, mostly succeeded before Haaland's withdrawal. Led a defense that limited Norway's chances effectively.
  • Renato Veiga - 6/10: Reliable in defense but looked slightly uneasy during Norway’s set pieces. Made important clearances but was caught out for the goal.
  • Nuno Mendes - 7/10: Provided creativity from the left flank and assisted Cancelo’s goal. His runs forced Norway deep and helped prevent counter-attacks.
  • Joao Palhinha - 6/10: Did the tough work breaking up play efficiently. Substituted in the 63rd minute for Ruben Neves to add passing variety.
  • Vitinha - 7/10: Controlled the midfield tempo well and helped Portugal complete nearly 500 passes. Taken off after Conceicao’s red card reshuffle.
  • Bruno Fernandes - 7/10: The team's leader, constantly searching for key passes. No direct assists or goals but showed strong leadership. Booked late in the game.
  • Francisco Conceicao - 4/10: Brought speed on the wing but costly due to his lack of discipline. Sent off with two yellows in quick succession, leaving Portugal a man down.
  • Joao Felix - 7/10: Dropped into pockets to link play effectively. Created the assist for Ramos’ winning goal. Replaced in injury time after a solid performance.
  • Goncalo Ramos - 8/10: Led the attack impressively in Ronaldo’s absence. Scored the decisive goal with sharp movement that unsettled Norway’s defense.
  • Diogo Dalot - 6/10: Came on for Cancelo to bring defensive stability on the right side as Norway pressed for an equaliser.
  • Ruben Neves - 6/10: Introduced to improve ball progression and help control the game's final phase.
  • Bernardo Silva - N/A: Entered late to add experience and keep possession after Conceicao’s sending off.
  • Trincao - N/A: Brought on near the end for tactical reasons.
  • Nuno Tavares - N/A: Subbed in during stoppage time to help waste time and reinforce defense.
  • Jorge Jesus - 7/10: Managed the match well, starting Ramos proved effective. His substitutions maintained control despite late disciplinary issues.

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