Portugal has officially secured its ticket to next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico after a dominant 9-1 victory over Armenia, setting the stage for what could be Cristiano Ronaldo’s unprecedented sixth appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Ronaldo, who missed the match due to suspension, watched from the sidelines as his teammates delivered a statement performance in Porto. Their win now ensures the 41-year-old forward, if fit and selected, will step into history as the only player ever to compete in six World Cup tournaments. He has already confirmed that this upcoming edition will be his final chance to chase the one trophy missing from his legendary career.
Despite the setback of a red card against Ireland last Thursday, which may extend his suspension into the tournament, Ronaldo is still expected to be included in coach Roberto Martinez’s final squad. Portugal’s earlier loss to Ireland meant Sunday’s win over Armenia was crucial — and Bruno Fernandes along with Joao Neves rose to the moment with spectacular hat tricks.
Hungary, meanwhile, missed its opportunity to top Group F after a dramatic collapse against a relentless Ireland side. A stunning hat trick from Troy Parrott, including a stoppage-time winner, sealed a 3-2 victory and pushed Ireland into the playoffs.
A Chapter of Football History in the Making
Should both Ronaldo and longtime rival Lionel Messi step onto the field next summer, they will break another barrier together — surpassing legendary German midfielder Lothar Matthäus, who competed in five World Cups. Argentina, the defending champions, secured qualification earlier, with Messi having completed his ultimate career quest by lifting the trophy in 2022.
Ronaldo’s journey, meanwhile, continues to amaze. Though playing in Saudi Arabia and approaching the twilight of his career, he remains a defining force for Portugal. This year, he led the nation to a Nations League triumph and recently became the all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifying with 41 goals.
While he couldn’t add to that tally this week due to suspension, Portugal more than compensated with a flood of goals. Fernandes delivered two penalty conversions among his three goals, while Neves completed his own treble with an 81st-minute strike.
Ireland’s Unforgettable Comeback
Ireland wrapped up a remarkable week with another inspiring performance — this time in Budapest. Trailing 2-1 in the 80th minute, Troy Parrott once again became the hero, calmly lifting the ball over Hungary’s goalkeeper for the equalizer before securing the winner deep into added time. His five goals in two matches propelled Ireland into the playoffs and turned him into one of the breakout stories of the qualifiers.
