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Ronaldo's Private Jet Joke Falls Flat at Finland Press Conference

On the eve of Finland's 2-1 victory over Albania in the Nations League, manager Jacob Friis attempted a jab at Cristiano Ronaldo's controversial departure from Portugal's camp — but his quip drew only awkward silence.

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Ronaldo's Private Jet Joke Falls Flat at Finland Press Conference
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Finland manager Jacob Friis tried to lighten the mood ahead of Albania’s visit in Nations League C on Friday by alluding to Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial exit from Portugal’s camp. The attempt fell flat with an uncomfortable silence.

“Yesterday, none of the players left by private jet, so they’re all available. I’m spoiled for choice,” the former Danish international said during his pre-match press conference. The room did not react. Friis then pressed on, visibly embarrassed: “You didn’t get the joke at first? There was no reaction. You made me look like an idiot!”

The reference targeted an episode from last Wednesday: Ronaldo had left Copenhagen aboard his private jet just hours before Portugal faced Denmark. Manager Jorge Jesus and Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença had personally travelled to the airport to try to stop him, without success. The 39-year-old striker, who owns his own aircraft like a handful of other global football stars, headed to Madrid.

The day after this failed press conference, Finland delivered on the pitch, winning 2-1 against Albania in the third match of Group 1 in Nations League C. Midfielder Leo Walta scored both Finnish goals, giving his team a crucial victory in the fight to stay in the division.

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