At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a key player for Portugal. His recent performances with Al Nassr have been impressive, scoring goals in back-to-back matches. As Portugal prepares for their 2026 UEFA World Cup Qualifiers against Armenia, there is keen interest in Ronaldo’s fitness, with many expecting him to start today.
Cristiano Ronaldo is in great shape heading into the match against Armenia, having avoided injuries with Al Nassr. His strong form has likely led head coach Roberto Martinez to include him in the starting lineup, as he aims to establish a strong base for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawing on Ronaldo’s recent excellence.
Even as a leading goal-scorer, Ronaldo fell behind in the 2022 UEFA World Cup Qualifiers, finishing six goals behind Harry Kane, who scored 12. Looking to his potential last qualifiers, Ronaldo aims to reclaim the top-scorer title. Under new coach Roberto Martinez, he has adopted a more free-flowing playing style, inspiring hopes of winning the top scorer award once more.
Cristiano Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in UEFA World Cup Qualifiers, with 41 goals. He sits 18 goals ahead of Harry Kane. With more matches coming up, the Portuguese star could extend his record in Qualifier history.
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after scoring a goal during the 2025 UEFA Nations League.
Portugal’s Expected Lineup vs Armenia
Throughout his time with the national team, head coach Roberto Martinez has relied on a core group of players. However, he must adjust the lineup with Rafael Leao unavailable due to a calf injury and Diogo Dalot dealing with muscle issues. Fortunately, Cristiano Ronaldo is fit and ready to lead the team’s attack.
With that in mind, Portugal’s lineup against Armenia might look like this: Diogo Costa; Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva; Francisco Conceicao, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Form Challenges Critics of the Saudi Pro League
After announcing his move to Saudi Arabia, many speculated that it marked the end of his professional career. Concerns arose about his place in the Portugal lineup. However, Ronaldo has proven critics wrong, becoming one of the top scorers in the league and a standout player for Al Nassr.
He has won the top-scorer title twice, scoring 35 goals in the 2023-24 season and 25 in 2024-25. While the league championship has escaped him, Ronaldo continues to inspire young players with his determination and lasting global influence.
Unlike many coaches, Roberto Martinez supports players in the Saudi Pro League. He continues to select talents like Joao Felix, Ruben Neves, and Joao Cancelo, who excel in the league. Martinez emphasized that he focuses on performance and rewarded consistency when the team won the 2025 UEFA Nations League.