Portugal qualifies for 2026 World Cup after 9-1 victory over Armenia
Portugal secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup on Sunday, defeating Armenia 9-1 in the final match of the European Qualifiers despite the absence of suspended Cristiano Ronaldo.
November 16, 2025 - 12:32 PM ET • 2 min read
The Portugal national team secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday after delivering a dominant 9-1 victory over Armenia in the final round of the European Qualifiers.
The comprehensive win, achieved despite the absence of suspended captain Cristiano Ronaldo, made Portugal the 31st nation overall and the fourth European team to qualify for the tournament. Portugal joins England, France, and Croatia among the European sides that have already secured their tickets to the next World Cup.
Portugal's offense proved overwhelming, highlighted by two separate hat-tricks. Midfielder João Neves and forward Bruno Fernandes each netted three goals against the Armenian side. The remaining goals were contributed by Renato Veiga, Gonçalo Ramos, and Francisco Conceição.
Playing against Armenia, the bottom team of Group F, the Portuguese side was determined to impose its terms from the start. The team, which is the reigning UEFA Nations League champion, saw Rafael Leão take a proactive role, while Gonçalo Ramos capitalized on his starting position following Ronaldo's expulsion in the previous fixture.
The first goal of the match came in the sixth minute from a Bruno Fernandes free kick. Although the Portuguese side faced a brief period of uncertainty after Armenia managed to equalize the score at 1-1, Portugal quickly regained momentum and turned the match into a rout, ultimately winning 9-1.
This decisive victory ensures Portugal's participation in its seventh consecutive World Cup tournament. Overall, this will be the nation's ninth appearance in the global competition, having previously participated in 1966 and 1986. Portugal's best historical result in the tournament was achieved in 1966.
The final round of the European Qualifiers is set to continue with more matches Sunday and will conclude on Tuesday, when the remaining eight group leaders will secure their spots in the 2026 World Cup.