Fernandes & Neves Hat-Tricks Fire Portugal to World Cup with 9-1 Rout

Fernandes and Neves Hit Hat-Tricks as Portugal Crush Armenia 9-1 to Reach 2026 World Cup

Portugal qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in spectacular fashion, dismantling Armenia 9-1 in Lisbon on Sunday night. Bruno Fernandes and Joao Neves both registered hat-tricks in a statement performance following a shock defeat to the Republic of Ireland in their previous match.

Portugal Bounce Back in Style

After Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card in the last game left their qualification hopes momentarily in doubt, Roberto Martinez’s men responded emphatically.

• Renato Veiga opened the scoring early with a header from Fernandes’ free-kick.

• Eduard Spertsyan equalised for Armenia in the 18th minute, briefly raising doubts.

• But Portugal quickly regained control, scoring eight unanswered goals.

Fernandes & Neves Dominate

• Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) scored:

  • A penalty just before half-time

  • A low strike from outside the box

  • A second penalty after Forbs was fouled

• Joao Neves, the 19-year-old sensation, dazzled with:

  • A swept finish after Ramos’ strike

  • A curling free-kick

  • A composed third goal in the 83rd minute

The pair accounted for six of Portugal’s nine goals, showcasing a blend of experience and rising talent.

Goals Galore in Lisbon

Ronaldo to Miss Group Stage Start

Despite the qualification, Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card against Ireland means he will be suspended for Portugal’s first two matches at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Portugal’s World Cup Campaign So Far

• Games Played: 6

• Wins: 5

• Goals Scored: 24

• Goals Conceded: 4

• Qualification: Secured automatically

This marks another dominant qualifying campaign for the 2016 European champions, whose squad depth continues to shine beyond the Ronaldo era.