Ronaldo nets brace as Portugal thrash Armenia | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo made a statement in Portugal’s World Cup qualifying opener, scoring twice as the reigning UEFA Nations League champions cruised to a 5-0 victory over Armenia.

The match was an emotional one for the squad, coming just months after the tragic loss of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car accident. Portugal were clearly determined to honour their late teammate with a dominant performance.

The scoring began early, with Joao Felix heading home Joao Cancelo’s cross inside the first 10 minutes to give the hosts a flying start.

Roberto Martinez's side doubled their advantage in the 21st minute - a nod to the number Jota wore - as Ronaldo tapped in Pedro Neto’s delivery from close range. Cancelo, who had assisted the opener, soon got on the scoresheet himself with a powerful strike in the first half.

Ronaldo was not done, finding the net again just after the restart with a ferocious 30-yard effort, taking his tally to 140 international goals and proving he is far from finished on the world stage.

Felix rounded off the scoring on the hour mark, calmly slotting home Portugal’s fifth to complete a comprehensive win.

Next up, Portugal head to Hungary on Tuesday, while Armenia will welcome Ireland for their second qualifying fixture.