Portugal beats Norway 2-1 without Ronaldo participating

(CNN) - The Portuguese national team defeated the Norwegian national team, two goals to one, at the latter’s stadium, on Sunday, in the second round of the European Nations League.

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo did not participate in the match, but sat on the bench despite being ready.

In statements reported by the "TNT Sports" network, Jorge Jesus, coach of the Portuguese national team, said about Ronaldo's non-participation: "He did not participate. I was thinking about including him, perhaps for half an hour, but the course of the match dictated other matters. I felt that the time was not appropriate to include him."

He added: "It was a tactical decision. I did not think it was the ideal moment. I needed a player with different characteristics, but that does not mean that he is out of options, quite the opposite."

Jesus continued: “There are still two matches remaining, but that was not to protect him physically, because he was in a condition that allowed him to play as long as I wanted to. Maybe he will play against Denmark.”

He continued: "I had already agreed with him to play the last half hour, but the match did not require that. Goncalo Ramos was playing well, and he scored a goal, then another goal was disallowed. I felt that it was not the right time to remove Ramos."

The 72-year-old coach explained: “As the match continues, it is no longer the right time for Chris to enter, but rather it is time for another player to help maintain the balance and secure the result.”

Jorge Jesus confirmed: “He (Ronaldo) had the same opportunity as others. Everything was the same. When I felt he needed to play, he would play, just as is the case with others.”

Cristiano's teammates lead the standings of Group Four (Class A) in the European Nations League for the current edition, with 6 points.