Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix both scored twice as Nations League champions Portugal defeated Armenia 5-0 in their opening Group F match of the European World Cup qualifiers.
Notably, Ronaldo’s first goal came in the 21st minute, symbolically matching the jersey number 21 worn by his late teammate, Diogo Jota.
First Match Since Jota’s Passing
This was Portugal’s first match since Jota tragically died in a car accident on July 3. Before kickoff, players from both teams and the entire crowd observed a minute of silence in his memory. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo wore a black armband to honour his fallen friend.
In the first half, Portugal quickly took control with three goals. In the 10th minute, Félix opened the scoring with a header.
Then, in the 20th minute, the stadium once again paid tribute to Jota. As the game moved from the 20th to the 21st minute, Ronaldo fittingly scored with a close-range finish, doubling the lead to 2-0.
Ronaldo and Félix Both Bag a Brace
Portugal’s relentless attacking continued. In the 32nd minute, João Cancelo fired home their third goal. Less than a minute into the second half, Ronaldo struck again with a long-range effort from outside the box, completing his brace.
In the 61st minute, Félix also netted his second goal, sealing a resounding 5–0 victory for Portugal.
Coach Martínez: Jota Is Always With Us
After the match, Portugal’s head coach Roberto Martínez expressed his emotions: “Jota is always with us, and the goal in the 21st minute carried a special meaning. It is a symbol of our unity moving forward. Jota’s presence is powerful; I felt it from the very first day in training camp. He truly remains with us.”
Jota had worn the No. 20 jersey at Liverpool and the No. 21 shirt for Portugal. That number has since been passed on to his close friend Rúben Neves, although Neves did not feature in this match.
Ronaldo’s Records Continue to Grow
Ronaldo not only scored but also continued breaking records. He now has 38 goals in World Cup qualifying matches, placing him second all-time, just one behind the record of 39 held by Guatemala’s Carlos Gutiérrez.
Even at 40 years old, Ronaldo continues to maintain his superb form. He has scored five goals in his last five appearances for Portugal and has extended his all-time international record to 140 goals.
Portugal Top Group F
With this emphatic win, Portugal sits comfortably at the top of Group F. Ireland and Hungary drew 2-2 to share second place, while Armenia finds itself at the bottom.
This match was more than just a tactical and technical triumph; it was an emotional tribute. Portugal’s five-goal victory was dedicated to their eternal teammate, Diogo Jota.
