Overview
- Portugal clinched direct qualification in Porto with a 9–1 win featuring goals from Bruno Fernandes and João Neves (both hat-tricks), plus Renato Veiga, Gonçalo Ramos and Francisco Conceição.
- Cristiano Ronaldo missed the match after his red card against Ireland, and FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee is reviewing the incident with the possibility of an extended ban affecting early World Cup games.
- Martínez called the performance a responsible, complete response to the loss in Dublin and highlighted the squad’s depth and solidarity.
- Estádio do Dragão continued its reputation as a good-luck venue for Portugal, hosting another decisive qualification celebration.
- In the group’s other game, Ireland beat Hungary 3–2 with a Troy Parrott hat-trick to secure a play-off spot and finalize the standings.