Bernardo Silva delivered a short message to Martin Odegaard after his tackle left the Arsenal captain injured and furious during Portugal's victory over Norway.
Odegaard limped out of the stadium following the challenge from the Real Madrid player, needing medical attention after the final whistle. Silva waited until Odegaard had released the ball before striking the back of his opponent's leg.
Odegaard confronts Silva
Odegaard was furious and confronted his former Premier League opponent, expressing his displeasure the next time the two were close on the pitch. The 27-year-old later hobbled off the field at full-time.
Asked about the incident after the match, Silva said: "It's football, my friend."
Odegaard's scathing response
After receiving treatment, Odegaard spoke to Norwegian broadcaster TV2, delivering a scathing assessment of the tackle.
"It doesn't belong on a football field," he said. "It's a shame that people do that. It's a head fog from him. Just kicks me down long after I've played the ball away. I don't understand what he's doing."
Odegaard refused to reveal what he had shouted at his rival, saying: "I don't think we should do that on TV," after appearing to shout an expletive at Silva.
Injury concern and match reaction
Despite considerable discomfort, Odegaard remained hopeful the injury would not sideline him. "I hope not," he said. "But I got a knock on my ankle there, so it probably won't be good tonight."
The moment also provoked fury among Norwegian commentators. "Look at Bernardo Silva. It's completely unnecessary, it's ugly," commentator Simen Stamso Moller said.
Mikel Arteta will be anxious to avoid another injury setback after Germany international Kai Havertz was forced to withdraw from national team duties.
Odegaard's disappointment was compounded by Norway's loss. Joao Felix opened the scoring in Oslo before Manchester City striker Erling Haaland levelled in the 51st minute. Goncalo Ramos quickly restored the visitors' advantage three minutes later. Cristiano Ronaldo stayed on the bench throughout.
