Fernandes, Neves Hat-Tricks, Portugal hammered Armenia 9-1 to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup.



Portugal booked their ticket to the 2026 World Cup in style, smashing Armenia with a rampant performance highlighted by hat-tricks from Bruno Fernandes and João Neves.

After a shock defeat to the Republic of Ireland in their previous outing — a match in which Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off — Portugal went into Sunday knowing only a win would guarantee qualification. They wasted no time. Renato Veiga nodded in early from a Bruno Fernandes delivery to settle the nerves.

Armenia hit back through Eduard Spertsyan on 18 minutes, but from that moment the match shifted completely in Portugal’s favour. Gonçalo Ramos restored the lead, Neves added two quick goals — one from open play and one a clever free-kick — and Portugal were flying.

Just before half-time, Rúben Dias was brought down in the box and Fernandes coolly tucked away the penalty to make it five.

After the break, Portugal kept their foot on the pedal. Fernandes completed his hat-trick with a drilled finish and another penalty after Carlos Forbs was fouled. Neves then sealed his own hat-trick with a tidy finish from the centre of the area.

There was still time for Francisco Conceição to fire in a late ninth to cap off a dominant evening.

Portugal are now officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup, though they’ll begin the tournament without Ronaldo, who is suspended for their first two matches following his red card against Ireland.



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