Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was the star of the show as Portugal booked their spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Portugal started the November international break with a 2-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland and Bruno Fernandes called out Cristiano Ronaldo for making the “costly” mistake of getting sent off.
It meant that Bruno Fernandes and his Portuguese teammates were at risk of missing out on the 2026 World Cup heading into their final qualifier against Armenia.
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With Ronaldo sat on the sidelines suspended, Portugal put on a masterclass and thumped Armenia 9-1 to secure their spot in the United States this summer.
Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty ImagesBruno Fernandes scores hat-trick vs Armenia
Portugal struggle without Fernandes, much like United do without their captain. He was missed against Ireland, and his return against Armenia was emphatic.
Playing in a No.10 position behind a front three of Bernardo Silva, Goncalo Ramos and Rafael Leao, Fernandes scored his first-ever international hat-trick against Armenia.
He scored twice from the penalty spot, either side of a goal in the 51st minute. Former United target Joao Neves also bagged a hat-trick from midfield.
The dominant win seals Portugal’s spot at the top of Group F.
Are you excited for World Cup 2026 in the USA? Bruno Fernandes match stats vs Armenia
Fernandes was in fine form at the Estadio do Dragao as he led his nation to the World Cup.
There was plenty to like about his performance, and his match stats prove just how pivotal he was to the victory.
Via Sofascore, Fernandes was given a 10/10 rating – the only player in the match to achieve a perfect score.
Bruno Fernandes vs ArmeniaMatch statsMinutes played90Touches92Goals3Shots (on target)7 (4)Hit woodwork1Key passes8Passes completed85% (56/66)Duels won72% (5/7)
Fernandes was a creative machine for his nation, completing a jaw-dropping eight key passes as well as finding the back of the net three times.
He could have added another goal to his tally with a shot that hit the woodwork.