Portugal delivered a stunning statement of intent on Sunday night, dismantling Armenia 9–1 in Porto to secure their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The emphatic win came just days after a disappointing loss to the Republic of Ireland and without suspended talisman Cristiano Ronaldo. Still, Roberto Martínez’s men showed they had more than enough firepower to finish the job.

Coming into the clash under pressure to avoid another slip, Portugal started like a team on a mission. Renato Veiga powered in a header from a Bruno Fernandes free-kick to settle early nerves, but Armenia offered a brief scare when Eduard Spertsyan equalised in the 18th minute. Instead of rattling, the hosts shifted into high gear.

Gonçalo Ramos restored the lead moments later, sparking a breathtaking spell of dominance. João Neves struck twice, one a brilliantly taken free-kick, to put Portugal firmly in control. Fernandes then added a fifth from the spot in first-half stoppage time after Rúben Dias was dragged down, sending Portugal into the break with a commanding lead.

The second half brought even more brilliance. Fernandes, orchestrating play with clinical efficiency, scored again after a slick exchange with Ramos before completing his hat-trick with a second penalty following a foul on debutant Carlos Forbs. Neves matched him with a hat-trick of his own, benefitting from Veiga’s cushioned header off another Fernandes delivery.

Francisco Conceição completed the demolition late on, capping a performance that underlined Portugal’s squad depth and mental resilience after their earlier setback in qualifying.

While Ronaldo’s suspension means he will miss Portugal’s first two matches at the 2026 World Cup, Sunday’s commanding display showed Martínez has a squad fully capable of rising to the occasion, even without its iconic captain.