Fresh off their victory as 2025 UEFA Nations League champions, Portugal enter the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers with momentum and high expectations. In their game against Armenia, head coach Roberto Martinez’s squad quickly asserted their dominance. Just minutes after Joao Felix’s first goal, Cristiano Ronaldo added an impressive brace to secure a comfortable advantage and propel Portugal towards a commanding victory.
In the opening moments, Portugal dominated the field, demonstrating commanding possession and quickly finding the net. Pedro Neto delivered a precise cross from outside the area, which Cristiano Ronaldo expertly converted with a first-touch strike, outmaneuvering goalkeeper Henri Avagyan.
Since Roberto Martinez assumed the head coach spot, young players have cemented their places in the national team, bolstered by seasoned veterans like Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Cancelo, and Bruno Fernandes. This potent blend of youthful talent and seasoned experience currently positions Portugal as one of UEFA’s strongest teams. Moreover, they have embraced an offensive style of play that amplifies Ronaldo’s scoring prowess.
Early in the second half, Cristiano Ronaldo found the back of the net once again. The Al Nassr veteran capitalized on a rebound from Armenia‘s center back Georgiy Harutyunyan, swiftly taking possession and launching a spectacular strike from outside the box. The shot was unstoppable, leaving the Armenian goalkeeper with no hope and securing Portugal’s fourth goal of the match.
Cristiano Ronaldo keeps building his Portugal legacy, strengthening his legendary status
Twenty-two years since his debut, Cristiano Ronaldo has cemented his status as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer with 140 goals, thanks to his recent strike against Armenia. This achievement gives the veteran a remarkable 93-goal lead over second-place, the legend Pauleta. Bruno, the nearest active player, trails 114 goals behind the current Al Nassr star.
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Where to watch Armenia vs Portugal live in the USA: UEFA World Cup Qualifiers
Cristiano Ronaldo’s scoring prowess has propelled Portugal to notable successes on the international stage. In 2016, he led the team to a historic UEFA Euro victory, and he has also been instrumental in securing two Nations League titles. These achievements have solidified his status as a transformative figure, helping his national team to claim its first major titles.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo look toward a record-breaking World Cup participation with Portugal?
Cristiano Ronaldo, still in peak form at 40, has extended his contract with Al Nassr until 2027. While the iconic forward has not confirmed participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, his ambition and indispensable role under head coach Roberto Martinez suggest a possible attendance. If he competes, the veteran star could set a historic mark as the most capped player in World Cup history, appearing in six tournaments.
