Portugal Eyes World Cup Glory Against Armenia: Bold Predictions and Star-Studded Lineups Revealed

Portugal must secure a positive outcome against Armenia this Sunday if they want to ensure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Roberto Martinez's team are struggling somewhat in their qualifying campaign. Following an impressive beginning that featured three consecutive victories, Portugal have drawn with Hungary and suffered defeat to the Republic of Ireland in their last two matches.

Thursday evening marked a memorable moment for the Irish but a disappointing night for the 2016 European champions, who were completely outplayed by their opponents and saw captain Cristiano Ronaldo receive a red card at the 60-minute mark for an elbow on Dara O'Shea. This represented the first sending-off of his distinguished international career.

Their loss combined with Hungary's 1–0 victory over Armenia means the Portuguese now hold just a two-point advantage at the top with one fixture left to play. Luckily, they demolished their upcoming opponents 5–0 in the earlier meeting in September, and should be anticipated to dominate once more against a side that has secured only one victory from their five qualifying matches thus far.

Here's Sports Illustrated's preview of the qualifier.

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Portugal Team News

The home side will make alterations in their attacking setup, with the ever-present Ronaldo unavailable on Sunday following his red card suspension. Paris Saint-Germain striker Gonçalo Ramos appears the most probable candidate to step in for the 40-year-old.

Pedro Neto remains sidelined this month with a groin problem, and Martinez should revitalize his forward line by introducing Rafael Leão in place of João Félix on the left wing. The former has been displaying excellent form for Milan recently, and poses a significantly greater threat than the ex-Benfica talent.

António Silva might be brought in to partner Rúben Dias in central defense, with Sporting CP defender Gonçalo Inácio potentially dropping to the bench. Despite their disappointing display on Thursday, the midfield trio should remain unchanged.

Nuno Mendes represents a significant absence on the left flank due to a knee injury, with Martinez relying on Diogo Dalot for the full 90 minutes against Ireland.

Portugal Predicted Lineup vs. Armenia

Portugal predicted lineup vs Armenia (4-3-3): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Silva, Dalot; Vitinha, J. Neves, R. Neves; B. Fernandes, Ramos, Leão.

Armenia Team News

Despite their narrow defeat to Hungary in their previous outing, Armenia may field a comparable starting eleven in Porto.

Henri Avagyan has replaced Ognjen Čančarević as their first-choice goalkeeper, and the 29-year-old will maintain his position on Sunday.

There are no new injury concerns from Thursday's loss, and without marquee players, the visitors will look to captain and top scorer Eduard Spertsyan for leadership against one of the globe's finest teams.

Armenia Predicted Lineup vs. Portugal

Armenia predicted lineup vs. Portugal (4-3-3): Avagyan; Piloyan, Muradyan, Mkrtchyan, Tiknizyan; Hovhannisyan, Muradyan, Spertsyan; Sevikyan, Ranos, Shaghoyan.

Portugal vs. Armenia Score Prediction

Quietly speaking, Ronaldo's absence for Sunday's crucial qualifier might actually benefit Portugal. Ramos represents a capable substitute, and perhaps Thursday's disappointing performance will provide the wake-up call Martinez's gifted squad needed.

There's potential for anxiety to spread through Porto this weekend, considering this match has suddenly become essential to win, but the inclusion of the dynamic Leão could prove decisive.

Armenia suffered a heavy defeat at home in the first encounter, and they won't be achieving a remarkable upset on this occasion.

Prediction: Portugal 4–0 Armenia