Portugal secured their place in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Nations League on Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Norway in Porto, maintaining their perfect record in the competition. The win marked the first team to advance to the knockout stage and came amid ongoing speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from the squad.

Norway took an early lead in the 36th minute through Kristoffer Ajer, who struck a dipping volley from outside the penalty area. Portugal responded quickly, with Joao Cancelo equalizing just two minutes later with a powerful drive. The winning goal came late in the match when Goncalo Ramos capitalized on a headed pass from Joao Felix, scoring in the 86th minute.

Portugal’s coach, Jorge Jesus, acknowledged the technical quality needed to overcome a strong Norwegian side but emphasized the importance of the victory, which ensured Portugal a top-two finish in Group A4. Jesus also addressed Ronaldo’s situation, stating that while the 41-year-old forward had left the squad earlier in the week after being benched, he was open to Ronaldo's return pending the player’s decision.

Meanwhile, the Nations League group stage continued with the Netherlands moving to the top of Group A2 following a 2-1 win against Serbia in Eindhoven. Substitute Joshua Zirkzee scored the decisive goal after receiving a cross from Tijjani Reijnders. The match also marked Virgil van Dijk’s 100th appearance for the Dutch national team. Under new coach Xavi, the Netherlands remain unbeaten after four matches, recording two wins and two draws.

In Thessaloniki, Germany, coached by Jurgen Klopp, were held to a 0-0 draw by Greece. Despite dominating possession and an early goal by Jonathan Burkardt being disallowed, Germany was unable to break down the Greek defense. This result leaves Klopp’s record with one win, one draw, and one loss in his first three matches in charge.

Denmark defeated Wales 1-0 in Cardiff, with Rasmus Hojlund scoring from a penalty in the 75th minute. Welsh goalkeeper Danny Ward had made several crucial saves but conceded the penalty after fouling Denmark's Gustav Isaksen.

The Nations League quarterfinals are scheduled for March, with Portugal the first confirmed participant following their strong group-stage performances. Other group outcomes are still being decided, keeping the competition’s knockout stage field in flux.