Portugal Qualify in Style as Ronaldo Eyes Another World Cup
Portugal reached the 2026 World Cup with a 9-1 win over Armenia, led by hat-tricks from Bruno Fernandes and João Neves.
Portugal qualified for the 2026 World Cup with a dominant 9-1 win over Armenia. Bruno Fernandes and João Neves both scored hat-tricks in that match, showing that Portugal’s strength now extends far beyond Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo had missed the Armenia match after being sent off against Ireland, but FIFA later confirmed that the remaining part of his ban was suspended under a probation period, allowing him to play in Portugal’s opening World Cup matches unless he commits another offence. Portugal’s campaign will combine Ronaldo’s legacy storyline with a midfield generation capable of controlling matches.
Players to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, João Neves.
Group opponents: Intercontinental Playoff Tournament 1 winner, Uzbekistan, Colombia.
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Read original at Reuters