Portugal is flying high in World Cup qualifiers. They’re just one step away from securing their spot for 2026. A recent 1-0 win over Ireland, sealed by Rúben Neves, highlighted a surprising trend. Players from Saudi Arabia’s top league are now dominating the national team’s scoring. Out of the nine goals Roberto Martínez’s squad has netted in the first three qualifiers, an astonishing eight came from stars playing in the Saudi championship.
Neves, a midfielder for Al Hilal, celebrated his first goal for the senior national side with that winner. But he’s not alone in this new wave. Three other big names from the Saudi League had already made their mark in this campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo, the Al Nassr forward, leads the pack with three goals. He bagged a double against Armenia in a 5-0 rout, and added another in the 3-2 victory over Hungary. Coincidentally, Hungary is Portugal’s next opponent, set for tomorrow at Estádio José de Alvalade at 7:45 PM. João Félix, who shares the dressing room at Al Nassr with Ronaldo, also chipped in with two goals against Armenia. He missed the Ireland match due to some minor physical issues. The “Saudi quartet” is completed by João Cancelo from Al Hilal. He’s currently out injured, but already has two goals to his name, scoring against both Armenia and Hungary.
Bernardo Stands Apart
Among all these players making headlines from the Saudi League, Bernardo Silva is the creative spark holding down the fort from European clubs. The Manchester City midfielder started against Ireland. He also added a crucial goal against Hungary, proving not all the magic comes from the Middle East.
CR7 Chasing Another Milestone
Tomorrow’s clash with Hungary gives Cristiano Ronaldo his second chance to make history. He’s aiming to become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup qualifying matches. Ronaldo, the 40-year-old captain, drew a blank against Ireland. He even saw goalkeeper Kelleher deny him a penalty kick in the 75th minute. He currently sits on 39 goals in World Cup qualification campaigns. Just one more goal will push him past Carlos Ruiz, the 46-year-old former Guatemala forward. This would secure yet another record for Ronaldo in the annals of world football.
Félix Ready for Action
João Félix is expected to be back in Roberto Martínez’s plans for the Hungary game. He was left out of the squad against Ireland because of physical problems, specifically a muscle strain from exertion. Full-back Nuno Tavares, on the other hand, was omitted purely for tactical reasons. Félix, who joined Al Nassr this season, had played in the first two qualifiers. He started against Armenia and came off the bench against Hungary. Yesterday, he was seen doing individual training on the pitch at Cidade do Futebol.