Portugal Thrashes Armenia 9-1 Without Ronaldo to Qualify for World Cup

The Portuguese national team officially secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup today, Sunday, after a massive 9-1 victory over visitors Armenia in the final round of European qualifiers. Star player Cristiano Ronaldo missed the match, held at Porto's Estádio do Dragão, after receiving a red card in the previous game against Ireland.

The goalfest began early, with defender Renato Veiga opening the scoring for Portugal in the 7th minute. Eduard Spertsyan then equalized for Armenia in the 28th minute.

Following the equalizer, Portugal's attacking machine sprang into action, scoring five goals in quick succession. Gonçalo Ramos netted in the 28th minute, followed by a brace from João Neves (30', 41'), and a penalty from Bruno Fernandes (45+3').

Portugal continued their scoring spree in the second half. Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes added two more goals, a sixth in the 51st minute and a seventh from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute, completing his hat-trick. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder João Neves also completed his hat-trick, scoring Portugal's eighth goal in the 81st minute, before Francisco Conceição sealed the emphatic victory with the ninth goal in the 90+2nd minute.

Portugal concluded their World Cup qualifying campaign at the top of Group F with 13 points. Group winners automatically qualify for the World Cup, while second-placed teams proceed to playoffs.