Ronaldo scores twice as Portugal win 5–0
The match held emotional weight for Portugal, marking their first international fixture since the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva in a road accident in July.
KATHMANDU: Cristiano Ronaldo kicked off his quest for a record sixth FIFA World Cup in stunning fashion, scoring twice in Portugal’s dominant 5–0 win over Armenia in Saturday’s UEFA World Cup qualifier.
The match held emotional weight for Portugal, marking their first international fixture since the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva in a road accident in July.
A moment of silence was observed before kickoff in their memory.
Ronaldo, now 40, netted in the 21st and 46th minutes, bringing his international goal tally to a staggering 140. The Portuguese captain recently signed a new deal with Saudi club Al Nassr and is fresh off leading Portugal to a Nations League title in June. However, a World Cup trophy remains the one elusive prize in his glittering career.
João Félix added a brace with goals in the 10th and 61st minutes, while João Cancelo scored in the 32nd. Cancelo honored Jota after his goal, raising his hands skyward in tribute.
Head coach Roberto Martínez praised the team’s preparation, highlighting Tuesday’s clash against Hungary as their next big test. Reflecting on Ronaldo’s first goal, he said, “21 was Diogo Jota’s jersey number — that goal was for him.”
