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Portugal Clinch World Cup Berth Without Ronaldo as Spain Close In

Portugal qualified without the suspended forward as other European groups push decisions to the final round of fixtures.

Overview

  • Portugal routed Armenia in Porto to win Group F and book their place at the 2026 World Cup despite Cristiano Ronaldo serving a suspension for his red card against Ireland.
  • Spain maintained a perfect qualifying run with a 4-0 win in Georgia, taking five wins with 19 scored and none conceded and leaving Turkey needing a seven-goal victory in Seville to overtake them.
  • Ronaldo’s straight red for an off-the-ball elbow is subject to disciplinary review, with reports suggesting a ban longer than one match could affect his availability for Portugal’s World Cup opener.
  • Belgium were held 1-1 by Kazakhstan and must finish the job against winless Liechtenstein, while Switzerland and Austria also remain short of mathematical confirmation ahead of the final matchday.
  • Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz was reported to extend an unbeaten appearance streak to 40 matches, adding a notable individual milestone to La Roja’s dominant campaign.