Portugal commenced their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a resounding 5-0 victory against Armenia at the Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium in Yerevan. Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix both scored twice, while Joao Cancelo added another to complete the rout. The match was also a poignant occasion as Portugal mourned the recent passing of Diogo Jota, with a minute of silence observed before kickoff.

Portugal dominated the match from the start. Joao Felix opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a header from a Joao Cancelo cross. Cristiano Ronaldo extended Portugal's lead in the 21st minute, converting a cross from Pedro Neto. Joao Cancelo then added a third goal in the 32nd minute.

Ronaldo scored again shortly after halftime with a "stunning strike of a bouncing ball from distance". Felix then completed the scoring in the 61st minute, making it 5-0.

The victory puts Portugal on top of Group F. They will next face Hungary in Budapest.

Meanwhile, England faced Andorra in their World Cup 2026 qualifier at Villa Park. England won the match 2-0. However, the performance was described as lackluster. An own goal from Christian Garcia in the first half gave England the lead. Declan Rice then added a second goal with a header in the second half.

England coach Thomas Tuchel expressed his dissatisfaction with the team's attitude. Several players were making their debuts, including Elliot Anderson. John Stones was absent from the squad due to injury. Despite the win, England's performance was far from impressive, and Tuchel faces questions about his team selection and tactics as the World Cup build-up continues.