Bruno Fernandes and Joao Neves both scored hat-tricks as Portugal booked their ticket to the 2026 World Cup with a dominant 9–1 victory over Armenia. Having suffered a shock defeat to the Republic of Ireland in their previous match a game in which captain Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off Portugal needed a win on Sunday to guarantee qualification.
They struck early through Renato Veiga, who headed in from a Fernandes free-kick. Armenia briefly hit back when Eduard Spertsyan finished from close range in the 18th minute, but Portugal soon regained control.
Goncalo Ramos restored the lead before Neves added two quick goals, including a well-taken free-kick. Portugal then made it 5–1 at the stroke of half-time when Ruben Dias won a penalty that Fernandes calmly converted.
Fernandes continued his masterclass in the second half, firing in a low strike before scoring another penalty after Carlos Forbs was fouled. Neves completed his hat-trick with a composed finish from the centre of the box, and Francisco Conceicao capped off the rout with a late drilled effort.
With qualification secured, Portugal will now be without Ronaldo for their first two World Cup group matches due to suspension from his earlier red card.
