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Ronaldo Scores Twice in Portugal’s 5-0 Qualifying Win, Overtakes Messi in World Cup Qualifier Goals

Portugal’s opener served as a tribute to the late Diogo Jota as Roberto Martínez praised his 40-year-old captain’s relentless drive.

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Cristiano Ronaldo GFX
Cristiano Ronaldo with his signature celebration after scoring for Portugal.

Overview

  • Portugal routed Armenia 5-0 in Yerevan to start 2026 World Cup qualifying, with João Félix scoring twice and João Cancelo also on the scoresheet.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace lifted his men’s international record to 140 goals for Portugal.
  • Ronaldo moved to 38 goals in World Cup qualifiers, surpassing Lionel Messi’s 36 and closing to within one of record holder Carlos Ruiz on 39.
  • A minute’s silence was observed for Diogo Jota, with tributes including Cancelo’s celebration and Ronaldo scoring in the 21st minute, Jota’s former national-team number.
  • Martínez hailed Ronaldo’s professionalism and hunger ahead of Tuesday’s trip to Hungary, with Portugal leading Group F after Hungary drew 2-2 with Ireland.