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How Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal Can Qualify for 2026 World Cup After Ireland Defeat
After an unexpected defeat against Ireland, Portugal only have one more chance to directly qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Roberto Martínez’s men saw their unbeaten streak in 2026 World Cup qualifiers snapped in their first of two matches during the November international break. A brace from Ireland striker Troy Parrott led his side to a 2–0 victory over Portugal in Dublin.
Even worse, Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off in the clash for violent conduct. Now, with his country’s place in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer on the line, the 40-year-old is facing a suspension.
It will be up to his supporting cast to get Portugal to the 2026 World Cup, where Ronaldo will want nothing more than to make up for his mistake and lead his country to the ever-illusive trophy, one they have never lifted in history.
Before Portugal can start dreaming of World Cup glory, though, they first must officially punch their ticket to the tournament, a feat they can accomplish on Sunday.
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Portugal Standings: Group F
Rank | Team | Games Played | Goal Difference | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Portugal | 5 | +5 | 10 |
2 | Hungary | 5 | +2 | 8 |
3 | Ireland | 5 | +1 | 7 |
4 | Armenia | 5 | -8 | 3 |
Portugal have seen their commanding lead atop the Group F standings dwindle. The 2025 UEFA Nations League champions are now just two points ahead of Hungary with one match left to play.
The door is open for the current runners-up to potentially snatch first place away from Portugal, with Ireland not far behind after collecting three points on Thursday evening as well.
How Portugal Can Qualify for the 2026 World Cup
Portugal can directly qualify for the 2026 World Cup with a victory over Armenia on Sunday, Nov. 15. A win at home will put Martínez’s side out of striking distance atop Group F with 13 points.
Even if Hungary defeat Ireland in their final match of the calendar year, they will only end up with 11 points and will be forced to settle for a runners-up finish.
Should Portugal only manage a draw with Armenia, though, and Hungary secure a win, the two nations will be tied on 11 points, where goal differential will be the deciding factor in who finishes in first place.
A loss for Portugal and a win for Hungary would see the former fall to second place and forced to compete in the playoffs to secure a bid to the 2026 World Cup.
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Amanda Langell is a Sports Illustrated FC freelance writer and editor. Born and raised in New York City, her first loves were the Yankees, the Rangers and Broadway before Real Madrid took over her life. Had it not been for her brother’s obsession with Cristiano Ronaldo, she would have never lived through so many magical Champions League nights 3,600 miles away from the Bernabéu. When she’s not consumed by Spanish and European soccer, she’s traveling, reading or losing her voice at a concert.