Hard yards! Skipper Fernandes warns Portugal must suffer to beat dangerous Norwegians

Portugal captain Bruno Fernandes is preparing to lead his side at the Estadio do Dragao for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixture. The Selecao currently sit at the top of Group A4 with nine points from three matches, but the skipper remains focused on the challenges posed by Stale Solbakken's Norway side.

Fernandes highlighted the quality of the opposition and the necessity of defensive resilience, reflecting on the tight 2-1 victory in Oslo earlier in the campaign. He stressed that success at this level often requires enduring difficult spells during the match.

We had to struggle in the first game against Norway; a side of great quality that causes problems. We have to recognise and appreciate the defensive work that was done. Bruno Fernandes

To secure another three points, the Manchester United midfielder aims to control the tempo alongside Vitinha and Ruben Neves. The objective is to dictate possession while creating space for attackers Rafael Leao and Goncalo Ramos, effectively limiting Norway's ability to counter-attack.

Victory in Porto would see Portugal maintain their flawless group record and edge closer to the Nations League quarter-finals. Norway, currently third in the group with three points, will be looking to disrupt those plans in an encounter kicking off at 18:45 GMT.