Portugal secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 9-1 victory over Armenia on Sunday, following a surprising midweek defeat to Ireland.
Despite the absence of suspended talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, the Seleção rose to the top of UEFA Group F, driven by hat-tricks from Bruno Fernandes and João Neves.
Early Pressure, Early Goals
Portugal began aggressively, taking the lead in the 7th minute. Armenia’s goalkeeper Henry Avagyan deflected a Bruno Fernandes free-kick onto the post, allowing Renato Veiga to head home the rebound.
Armenia briefly silenced the home crowd when Eduard Spertsyan equalized in the 18th minute, capitalizing on defensive errors.
After a moment of applause for the late Diogo Jota, Portugal regained command.
Gonçalo Ramos capitalized on a poor back pass to make it 2-1, and less than two minutes later, João Neves delivered a superb first-time strike from the edge of the box.
The Benfica midfielder doubled his tally with a stunning free-kick off the underside of the bar four minutes before half-time.
Moments later, Portugal won a penalty after Rúben Dias was dragged down in the box, and Fernandes converted to give the hosts a 5-1 lead at halftime.
Fernandes Completes His Treble
In the second half, Portugal maintained their offensive pressure. Fernandes scored again in the 51st minute following determined play from Ramos, and he completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot after Carlos Forbs was fouled in the area.
Neves Seals His Hat-trick as Portugal Runs Riot
Armenia, ranked 104th in the world, had no response as Neves executed an acrobatic finish nine minutes from time to complete his own treble.
Substitute Francisco Conceição added a late ninth goal to cap a dominant performance, securing Portugal’s place in the 2026 World Cup.
