Portugal’s stunning 9-1 victory over Armenia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has ignited a fierce debate: Is Portugal better off without Cristiano Ronaldo? The historic win, which secured Portugal’s place in the tournament, has social media buzzing with questions about the team’s performance in the absence of their iconic captain.
The match, described by some as more of a training session than a competitive fixture, saw Portugal achieve their biggest-ever win in a World Cup qualifier. Neves and Fernandes were the stars of the show, each bagging a hat-trick and showcasing an attacking masterclass. Observers noted the Armenian side offered little resistance, struggling to create meaningful chances beyond a solitary goal.
Ronaldo’s absence, due to a red card received in the previous match against Ireland – his first dismissal in 226 international appearances – became a central point of discussion. Pundits, analysts, and fans alike are questioning whether Portugal truly needs Ronaldo, considering the depth and talent within the squad, currently ranked fifth in the FIFA world rankings.
Portugal has consistently qualified for major tournaments, boasting seven consecutive World Cup appearances and a total of nine participations. Their achievements include winning the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles, highlighting the strength and resilience of the Portuguese national team across generations.
However, Ronaldo’s contributions to the national team cannot be ignored. He remains their all-time leading scorer and the world’s top international goalscorer with an astonishing 143 goals, a record that seems almost unbreakable. The debate continues: Can Portugal maintain this level of success without relying on their legendary talisman? Only time will tell.
The question remains: Can Portugal continue this success without Ronaldo? Only time will provide the answer.
