Ronaldo Nets Twice as Portugal Thrash Armenia 5-0 in Yerevan

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo scored a brace to extend his international goal record as his side routed Armenia 5-0 in Yerevan on Saturday, kick-starting their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in emphatic fashion.

The 40-year-old forward’s two goals lifted his men’s international tally to 140 and underscored his enduring drive for a record-sixth World Cup appearance, demonstrating that age has done little to diminish his lethal finishing.

Match Highlights

• Ronaldo opened the scoring with a clinical finish in the 10th minute before doubling his haul early in the second half.
• João Félix struck twice and João Cancelo added a late fifth as Portugal dominated from start to finish.
• The victory leaves Portugal top of Group F ahead of upcoming fixtures against Hungary and Liechtenstein.

Record Milestone and Motivation

Ronaldo’s brace cemented his position as the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football, two goals clear of the previous mark, fueling his quest for new benchmarks before the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Context and Outlook

Having signed a new contract with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia and led Portugal to last summer’s UEFA Nations League title, Ronaldo now eyes the only major trophy missing from his cabinet. At 41 by the next World Cup, he and Lionel Messi would become the first players to compete in six tournaments if both reach the finals.

Portugal returns to action against Hungary next week, with Ronaldo expected to lead the line as Roberto Martínez’s side push for early qualification.