| Portugal vs Norway | |
| MATCH | Nations League |
| DATE | 28 - 09 - 2026 |
| TIME | 12.15 AM IST |
| STADIUM | Stadium |
Norway vs Portugal: Match Preview
Norway will look to build on their impressive Nations League opening victory when they face Portugal in their next Group 4 fixture. Erling Haaland was the star of the show in Norway’s 3-2 win over Denmark, scoring twice to put his side at the top of the section.
Norway are competing in League A of the UEFA Nations League for the first time after earning promotion from League B during the 2024-25 campaign. Their recent progress has made them one of the teams to watch in European international football.
Stale Solbakken’s side also enjoyed an impressive 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, reaching the quarter-finals before losing 2-1 to England. Norway have also developed a strong record in the Nations League, winning 15 of their previous 25 matches and suffering just six defeats.
However, their record against Portugal remains a concern. The two nations have met 11 times, with Norway winning once, drawing twice and losing eight times. Norway’s only victory came in a European Championship qualifying match in September 2010.
The most recent meeting between the sides was a friendly in May 2016, when Portugal secured a comfortable 3-0 victory. Portugal have also won three of their last four matches in all competitions.
Portugal opened their Nations League campaign with a 1-0 victory over Wales, with João Félix scoring the decisive goal in the first half. The result put Portugal second in Group 4 on three points.
The Portuguese side were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup, but they remain the reigning Nations League champions after defeating Spain on penalties in the 2024-25 final.
Portugal have won the Nations League twice, also lifting the trophy during the inaugural 2018-19 edition. They will therefore enter this campaign aiming to defend their title.
The national team are also beginning a new era under manager Jorge Jesus, who replaced Roberto Martínez following the 2026 World Cup. Jesus will be looking for another strong performance as Portugal continue their Nations League campaign.
Norway Nations League Form
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Norway Form – All Competitions
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Portugal Nations League Form
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Portugal Form – All Competitions
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Team News
Norway will be without David Wolfe, who is suspended after receiving a red card during the victory over Denmark.
Haaland remains Norway’s biggest attacking threat. His two goals against Denmark took his international tally to 64 goals in 56 appearances, highlighting the danger Portugal will face in the final third.
Oscar Bobb is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup, although Andreas Schjelderup could come into contention if Antonio Nusa is replaced.
Portugal could make a midfield change, with João Neves expected to come into the XI in place of Rúben Neves.
Cristiano Ronaldo is also expected to continue leading the Portuguese attack. The 41-year-old was unable to make a major impact against Wales but remains Portugal’s key attacking figure and will be looking to add to his 146 international goals.
João Cancelo started at right-back against Wales and is expected to keep his place. Renato Veiga is also expected to feature in central defence.
Key Players
Erling Haaland – Norway
Haaland enters the match in excellent international form after scoring twice against Denmark. His pace, strength and finishing ability will make him the central focus of Portugal’s defensive strategy.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s most experienced attacking player. Despite a quiet outing against Wales, his international scoring record means Norway cannot afford to give him opportunities around the penalty area.
What to Expect
The match should provide an intriguing battle between Norway’s emerging generation and Portugal’s experienced squad. Norway will have confidence after their opening victory and will look to use Haaland’s goalscoring threat, while Portugal will aim to control possession and maintain their position near the top of the group.
With both sides opening the Nations League campaign with victories, the result could have an important impact on the early Group 4 standings.