Nyland's rough patch began on the biggest stage during the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals. Despite a heroic run earlier in the tournament—including saving a penalty against Brazil—his costly mistake against England left him in tears and ultimatly spelled the end for the Scandinavians at the tournament.
His lapses in concentration carried over into Norway's 1-2 Nations League defeat to Portugal. His critical mistakes completely undid the momentum Norway built after Erling Haaland's equalizer and cost Norway their 14-match home unbeaten streak.
Again on Thursday against Wales Nyland was again at fault at Wales' matchwinning goal as he anticipated a freekick from Neco Williams poorly, taking a fatal initial step to his left before the ball flew into the net to his right.
Now Solbakken has had enough and announced on the press conference after the match that Egil Selvik will get a chance in goal from the start against Portugal in Porto.
Speaking to Norwegian TV 2, Solbakken emphasized that the decision had been made even before the match against Wales.
"I’ll reveal the plan now. I haven’t told anyone else, so I’m announcing it directly on TV 2. Egil Selvik has been told he will start in goal against Portugal. He was informed of this when the squad was selected yesterday," Solbakken said.
"It comes down to performance. We agreed before this match that Selvik should get the chance. He has earned it."
Egil Selvik, who plays for French outfit Brest, has eight senior international caps to his name, will thus guard the net in the final match of the current international break.