Imagine being sidelined for your country's most crucial World Cup qualifier, only to watch your teammates demolish the opposition 9–1 without you. That’s exactly what happened to Cristiano Ronaldo, who, despite his suspension, couldn’t resist celebrating Portugal’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification with a passionate rallying cry on social media. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Portugal actually better off without their legendary captain? Let’s dive in.
Moments after the final whistle blew at the Estádio do Dragão on Sunday, Ronaldo took to his platforms to shout, “ESTAMOS NO MUNDIAL! VAMOS COM TUDO, PORTUGAL!” (We’re in the World Cup! Let’s go, Portugal!). The 40-year-old had been forced to miss the Armenia match after a rare red card in Portugal’s shocking 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland. In a moment that stunned fans, Ronaldo’s trailing elbow caught Dara O’Shea, earning him his first-ever sending-off in a 22-year international career. Yet, even without their talisman, Roberto Martínez’s squad delivered a masterclass, with five different players scoring—including hat-tricks from Bruno Fernandes and João Neves—in front of a euphoric home crowd.
With Portugal’s spot in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico-hosted tournament secured, Ronaldo is now poised to join Lionel Messi as the only players to feature in six World Cups. And this is the part most people miss: Portugal’s 9–1 victory marked only the second time in their history they’ve scored nine goals in a match—both instances occurring without Ronaldo on the pitch. So, does this mean the team thrives without him? Martínez was quick to shut down that narrative. “No, we’re a better team with Ronaldo, Nuno Mendes, and Pedro Neto,” he asserted in his post-match presser. “Football is about mistakes, resilience, and finding ways to win even when key players are absent. The goal is to have all our stars, but also the confidence to succeed without them.”
Despite stumbles against Hungary and Ireland, the 2025 UEFA Nations League champions topped Group F with 13 points. Meanwhile, Ireland’s last-gasp 3–2 win over Hungary secured them a playoff spot, keeping their World Cup dreams alive. As for Portugal, Ronaldo, Mendes (out with a knee injury), and Neto (groin injury) remain integral to the squad’s future, barring any fitness setbacks.
Controversial question for you: Does Ronaldo’s absence in these high-scoring matches suggest Portugal has evolved beyond relying on him, or is he still the irreplaceable heart of the team? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over!
