Portugal delivered a stunning statement of intent, thrashing Armenia 9-1 in a World Cup qualifier to secure their place at the 2026 tournament, all without their suspended captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Hat-Trick Heroes Step Up
With Ronaldo watching from the sidelines after his red card against Ireland, Bruno Fernandes and Joao Neves both scored hat-tricks in a devastating team performance. The Manchester United midfielder and the Paris Saint-Germain star were instrumental in Portugal's biggest victory in more than two years, which was sealed in front of a home crowd in Porto.
Further goals from Renato Veiga, Goncalo Ramos, and Francisco Conceicao completed the rout. Armenia had briefly brought the score level at 1-1 through Eduard Spertsyan, but the Portuguese response was emphatic and relentless.
Ronaldo's Absence and World Cup Implications
The match was overshadowed by the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was serving a suspension following his dismissal in the previous qualifier. The 40-year-old forward is now at risk of also being suspended for the opening game of next year's World Cup, though the Portuguese football federation plans to appeal the length of the ban.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez commented on the incident before the Armenia game, suggesting the action "looks worse than what it actually is." He expressed frustration that the opposing coach had discussed influencing referees before a defender "falls on the floor so dramatically."
Qualification Secured and Group Standings
The resounding victory ensured Portugal won their qualifying group and will travel to the 2026 World Cup without the need for a tense play-off. The result also had implications for the rest of the group, with the Republic of Ireland finishing as runners-up after a dramatic late win in Hungary, where Troy Parrott scored another hat-trick.
The performance demonstrated the immense depth of attacking talent available to Martinez, proving that there is life for Portugal after their legendary captain. The 9-1 scoreline sends a powerful message to their future World Cup rivals.
