- Ronaldo, 40, netted a brace as Portugal eased past Armenia in Group F.
- The forward extended his international record to 140 goals.
- This campaign could be Ronaldo’s last chance to win a World Cup.
- Portugal dominated with goals from Felix, Cancelo, and Ronaldo.
Portugal began their World Cup qualifying campaign in style, sweeping aside Armenia 5-0 at the Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium. Joao Felix opened the scoring early before Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice, one of them a powerful shot from 25 metres. Felix added his second, and Joao Cancelo also found the net to seal the emphatic win.
At 40 years old, Ronaldo continues to set records, pushing his tally to 140 international goals. Despite his glittering career, which includes five Champions League titles and a European Championship, the World Cup has remained elusive. With Lionel Messi lifting the trophy in 2022, Ronaldo is determined to close the gap.
The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico is likely to be Ronaldo’s last shot at the title. If he plays, it will be his sixth World Cup appearance a milestone yet to be reached by any player.
“It was a near-perfect performance,” midfielder Vitinha said after the match, commending Portugal’s display.
