Portugal Qualify for World Cup Despite Ronaldo’s Absence

Portugal produced a stunning display of attacking football to thrash Armenia 9-1 in a crucial World Cup qualifying match in Porto, securing their place at the 2026 tournament for the ninth time in history. The hosts took an early lead within seven minutes, with Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes orchestrating proceedings from the outset.

Armenia responded with a goal of their own just 11 minutes later, courtesy of captain Eduard Spertsyan, temporarily silencing the stadium. Yet the visitors’ celebrations were short-lived, as a series of defensive errors left them vulnerable to Portugal’s relentless attacking force. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo being suspended after a red card in the previous match, Portugal’s other players ensured his absence was barely felt on the pitch.

Gonçalo Ramos, Renato Veiga, and Francisco Conceição all contributed to the goal-fest, with Fernandes and João Neves both scoring hat-tricks. By the end of the first half, Portugal had already taken a commanding 5-1 lead, with Neves adding a spectacular free-kick and Fernandes converting a penalty.

The second half saw Fernandes continue his dominance, completing his hat-trick with a second penalty and an expertly timed finish from Ramos’ pass. Neves added a further goal in the 81st minute, before Conceição sealed the emphatic victory in stoppage time.

Portugal topped Group F with 13 points from six matches, winning four games, and will now travel directly to the World Cup finals. This marks their second-biggest international victory, following a 9-0 thrashing of Luxembourg during the Euro 2024 qualifiers. Even without Ronaldo, Portugal demonstrated tactical discipline, technical flair, and ruthlessness in attack, leaving no doubt as to their credentials on the world stage.