Portugal will be in the United States, Mexico and Canada 2026, the seventh consecutive presence at the biggest event in world football since 2002. The qualification was sealed by the victory over Armenia (9-1), a result that reflects the strength of the team with Roberto Martínez, champion of the last Nations League last summer, in the final against Spain.
Since his arrival in January 2023, the Spanish coach has achieved stability and continuity, reaching historic records: 15 qualifying matches without losing against Portugal, 11 consecutive victories and a winning percentage in official matches of 70.9%. Furthermore, his average is 2.66 goals per game.
The combination of individual talent and collective cohesion has allowed Portugal to manage the table even without its highest standard: Cristiano Ronaldo, sanctioned after his dismissal against Ireland last Thursday. The Portuguese Federation has started CR7’s defense before the UEFA Disciplinary Commission, trying to limit the disqualification to just one match – already served against Armenia – and guarantee his participation from the start of the World Cup.
CR7’s institutional defense underlines the ambition to keep the squad intact in the tournament and to guarantee the availability of the team managers from the start. Portugal will appear in the United States not only as a guaranteed participant, but as an organized and confident team with the resources to aspire to its first world title.
Meanwhile, Italy loses at home against Norway 1-4, with a brace from Haaland for the guests. The Nordic team thus reconfirms first position in the group with 24 points against 18 for the Azzurri, who will go to the play-offs.
