The Portugal captain, along with Joao Moutinho and Raphael Guerreiro, did not travel with the team for the match in Geneva.

With his team sitting top of Group A2, Fernando Santos took the chance to grant the Manchester United striker a rest.

Asked about the absences, Santos replied: "They are not because of physical problems – it's just normal management.

"It wouldn't make sense to have 26 travelling to Switzerland when only 23 can be in the squad. In the last game we've been doing the best management and now it has fallen to these players."

Even without Ronaldo, midfielder Ruben Neves has no doubt that Portugal have enough quality to claim a third win of the campaign.

"Obviously, Cristiano is the best player in the world and it's always good to play with him," Neves said.

"But I'm sure we're all prepared to help bring home another three points."