Joao Felix Scores as Portugal Beat Norway to Lead Nations League Group
Joao Felix maintained his strong start to the international campaign by scoring first in Portugal’s 2-1 UEFA Nations League win over Norway at Ullevaal Stadium, a result that left Jorge Jesus’ side clear at the top of Group A4 on six points.
Portugal take control in Oslo
- Felix gave Portugal a 17th-minute lead with a composed finish, having also scored the decisive goal in the previous victory over Wales.
- Erling Haaland brought Norway level for the home side, briefly raising hopes of a response in Oslo.
- Goncalo Ramos restored Portugal’s advantage after the interval, securing a 2-1 away win.
- The victory moved Portugal onto six points at the summit of Group A4, while Norway remain without a point.
The result continued an encouraging opening spell under Jesus, with Portugal winning away in a demanding atmosphere and showing the defensive resilience Felix believes will be essential over the course of the group stage.
Felix highlights collective response
Felix, 26, said Portugal’s progress has been built on the squad accepting the same objective rather than relying on individual quality. He pointed to the team’s work without the ball as well as its attacking threat against Norway.
“The collective has to come before everything else,” Felix said. “When everybody is moving in the same direction and working towards one target, we can be an extremely strong side. We demonstrated that strength, tactically and physically.”
The forward said the players have adapted quickly to Jesus’ approach and viewed the win in Oslo as an important sign of the group’s development under the new coaching staff.
“There is a good feeling within the squad and we are taking on board the coach’s ideas well,” he added. “Winning in Norway was important because it was not an easy place to come. We are improving and things are going well. I hope that continues.”
Denmark next for Group A4 leaders
Portugal will travel to Copenhagen on Thursday to play Denmark, aiming to preserve their perfect opening record and extend Felix’s current scoring run. They will then welcome Norway to Estadio do Dragao in October.
Norway, meanwhile, head to Wales in search of their first points of the Nations League group campaign.
