Cristiano Ronaldo heading to record 6th World Cup next year

Dubai: Cristiano Ronaldo fans can relax — the legendary forward is set to make his sixth World Cup appearance in 2026. Portugal secured its spot at next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a commanding 9—1 win over Armenia on Sunday.

Ronaldo, who was suspended for the match in Porto, nonetheless saw his teammates ensure he’d have the chance to compete in a record-setting sixth World Cup. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner will be 41 when the tournament begins next June and has recently suggested it will likely be his final attempt to win the one major trophy missing from his career. Provided he stays fit, he is expected to be included in Roberto Martínez’s squad, though he could still face up to a two-match ban following his red card in Portugal’s 2—0 loss to Ireland on Thursday.

That surprising defeat made a win over Armenia essential to secure the top spot in Group F, and Portugal delivered thanks to hat tricks from Bruno Fernandes and João Neves. Hungary had a chance to leapfrog Portugal but suffered a dramatic 3—2 home loss to Ireland, with Troy Parrott scoring a hat trick — including an 80th-minute equaliser and a stoppage-time winner. The victory lifted Ireland to second place and into the playoffs.