Tue Nov 19 00:36:18 UTC 2024: ## Ronaldo Benched as Portugal Faces Croatia in Nations League Finale

**SPLIT, CROATIA** – Cristiano Ronaldo will be absent from Portugal’s UEFA Nations League clash against Croatia on November 18th, as coach Roberto Martinez opts to rest key players after securing qualification for the next round. Portugal, already boasting a 13-point lead (4 wins, 1 draw) and an impressive 12-4 goal differential, will field a younger squad in the final Group A1 match.

The decision to bench Ronaldo, along with Bernardo Silva, Pedro Neto, and Bruno Fernandes (suspended), allows for the integration of promising young players Fabio Silva and Quenda. While Martinez aims to maintain Portugal’s undefeated streak, the focus shifts to giving valuable game time to less experienced players. The match will take place at Stadion Poljud in Split. The absence of several key players will test the depth and resilience of the Portuguese team as they aim to finish the group stage on a high note.

Read More