World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Led by Ronaldo and João Félix, Portugal demolishes Armenia

Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix both found the net twice on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Yerevan, as Portugal cruised past Armenia (5-0) in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The Seleção dominated proceedings with a high-flying attack firing on all cylinders.

Portugal kicked off their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign in style, thrashing Armenia 5-0 this afternoon in Yerevan. Deployed up front by Roberto Martinez, Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates delivered a commanding, emphatic win.

A lightning start to the match

By the 10th minute, João Félix opened the scoring with a brilliant header from a pinpoint João Cancelo cross, both returning to international duty. This early goal set the Portuguese free to play their game. In the 21st minute, Pedro Neto whipped in a perfect cross-shot, and Cristiano Ronaldo slammed home a clinical volley to double the lead, marking his 139th goal for the national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo in top form for his 140th goal with Portugal

The Seleção captain wasn't finished yet. Right after the restart, Cristiano Ronaldo completed his brace, latching onto a fine pass from Bruno Fernandes to net Portugal's fourth in the 46th minute. These two goals bring his tally to 140 international goals—an unmatched record. At 40 years old, the Portuguese icon continues to prove he is a lethal finisher.

Between Ronaldo's two strikes, João Cancelo had already made it three, slotting home in the 32nd minute after a move down the right flank.

João Félix marks his return

The Al-Nassr forward also enjoyed a triumphant comeback to the national team with a brace of his own. After his early opener in the 10th minute, João Félix produced a moment of magic in the 61st, scoring with a superb backheel flick to make it 5-0. This emphatic victory puts Portugal atop Group F after the opening matchday with a stunning goal difference.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.