Portugal began their 2026 World Cup Qualifying with a 5-0 win over Armenia on Saturday, September 6. Being placed in Group F, alongside Turkey, Czechia and Georgia, the Roberto Martinez-managed side continued
their domination as they beat Armenia at latter’s home turf. In the intense match, captain Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix scored twice whereas Joao Cancelo also got one to his name.
With a brace in the World Cup qualifier, Ronaldo made a strong start to his campaign for a record sixth World Cup appearance. Furthermore, with two more goals in his tally, he also went on to etch some record-breaking feats, increasing his tally in men’s international football to 140.
Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Messi in most goals in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
The brace for Ronaldo got him to second place with total of 38 goals so far in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. He surpassed Messi and now leads him with two goals. Only Carlos Ruiz of Guatemala has scored more goals (39) than Ronaldo in the World Cup qualifiers.
Aged 40, the Portuguese international continues to play with only the World Cup being the only trophy missing from his illustrious career. Hoping to lead Portugal once again in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, it could be his final opportunity to win the trophy. So far, the 40-year-old has won Champions League five times and the European Championship with Portugal. The Portugal side will next play Hungary on Tuesday, September 9.
