Berlin, Nov. 17 -- Joao Neves and Bruno Fernandes each scored a hat-trick as Portugal routed Armenia 9-1 in Porto on Sunday, securing their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With captain Cristiano Ronaldo suspended, Portugal fielded a reshaped front line but quickly took control in Porto on Sunday. Renato Veiga opened the scoring in the seventh minute, settling any early nerves as the hosts dominated possession.
Armenia equalized in the 18th minute with its first real chance, but Portugal responded swiftly. Goncalo Ramos restored the lead 10 minutes later, before Neves struck twice and Fernandes added another to send Roberto Martinez's side into halftime 5-1 ahead.
Portugal continued to dictate the tempo after the break, pinning Armenia d...