Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus explained why Cristiano Ronaldo did not come off the bench during the team’s win over Norway, despite initially planning to bring the veteran forward into the game in the second half.
Ronaldo did not feature as Portugal secured a convincing 2-1 victory over Norway.
Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo remained an unused substitute on the bench for the full 90 minutes. It broke his historical 18-year streak of playing whenever named in the squad. The result also brought an end to Norway’s impressive 14-match unbeaten home run.
Jesus revealed that he had spoken to the Al-Nassr forward before the match and told him that he would start on the bench but was expected to come on during the game.
However, the flow of the match changed the Portugal coach’s plans, with Jesus deciding that Ronaldo’s particular style of play was not what the team needed at that stage.
Why Ronaldo Was Not Part Of The Game
“Before the match, I told him I was going to play him, but I didn’t. It’s football that dictates things,” Jesus said after the victory, via AS Quinas.
“He was ready to play, but it wasn’t his moment. I needed a player with different characteristics.”
Jesus explained that he had initially considered introducing Ronaldo around the hour mark, but the circumstances of the match eventually convinced him to use other options.
“I was thinking of bringing him on at the hour mark, but it wasn’t the right time given the flow of the match. Maybe he’ll play against Denmark,” he added.
The Portugal boss stressed that Ronaldo’s absence from the pitch should not be interpreted as him falling out of favour. Jesus insisted that he continues to count on the 40-year-old forward and suggested that the decision was purely tactical.
“Just because he didn’t play doesn’t mean I don’t count on him. I count on him just as much,” Jesus said.
Jorge Jesus Explain’s Ronaldo’s Reaction
The coach was also asked about Ronaldo apparently not joining the Portugal players in thanking the supporters after the match. Jesus admitted that he had not noticed the incident himself and said only Ronaldo could explain why he did not participate.
“Why didn’t he thank the fans? You’ll have to ask him. I can’t read his mind. I’ll know when I talk to him,” Jesus said.
With Portugal set to face Denmark in their next fixture, Ronaldo could return to the starting XI.