Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Silence After Portugal Secures 2026 World Cup Spot Despite His Suspension
Moments after the final whistle echoed through the Estádio do Dragão on Sunday evening, Cristiano Ronaldo rushed to his social media accounts to commemorate Portugal securing their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 40-year-old superstar was unable to participate in his nation's concluding World Cup qualifying match against Armenia following his dismissal in Portugal's surprising 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland in their previous encounter. Ronaldo struck Dara O'Shea with his elbow and received his first red card in his 22-year international journey.
Nevertheless, despite playing without their skipper and record goalscorer, Roberto Martínez's squad dominated with an impressive 9–1 triumph before an ecstatic home audience. Five separate players scored goals, with Bruno Fernandes and João Neves leading the charge by each netting hat tricks.
With Portugal's qualification for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer now confirmed, Ronaldo, who will become only the second player alongside Lionel Messi to participate in six World Cups, shared an inspiring message across his social media channels.
"We're in the World Cup!" Ronaldo posted. "Let's go Portugal!"
Despite setbacks against Hungary and the Republic of Ireland, the 2025 UEFA Nations League winners still claimed the top spot in Group F with 13 points.
The Boys in Green, who managed a dramatic 3–2 win over Hungary, finished second and will now enter the playoff round to maintain their 2026 World Cup aspirations.
Martínez: Portugal Are Still 'Better' With Ronaldo
Portugal have now achieved nine goals in a match only twice throughout their history, and both occasions occurred without Ronaldo's presence. However, Martínez quickly dismissed any suggestions that his team might perform better without the Real Madrid icon.
"No, we're a superior team with Ronaldo, Nuno Mendes, and Pedro Neto," the Portugal manager stated during his post-match media briefing.
"The key point is that football involves errors, challenges, and perseverance, and when certain players are absent, we must discover ways to succeed. I believe what matters most is having all our crucial players available, while also maintaining confidence and a clear understanding that we can triumph even when specific players aren't in the starting lineup."
Mendes was sidelined during the November international window due to a knee problem while Neto is recovering from a groin issue. However, these two key players, alongside Ronaldo, remain essential components of Portugal's squad and will return to action in the coming year, assuming no additional fitness concerns arise.