In the 21st minute, Ronaldo, after slipping past the defense to receive Pedro Neto's cross from the right, scored from close range past goalkeeper Henri Avagyan.

Martinez viewed this as a special tribute to Jota, who died in an accident in early July. The late Liverpool forward's number 21 jersey was given to his close friend, Ruben Neves.

"It was a personal moment but also a collective one," Martinez said after the match at Republican Stadium in Yerevan. "Jota is always with us in spirit. From the first training session, his presence was felt. Ronaldo scoring in the 21st minute was like a message of gratitude and motivation from Jota to the whole team."

Ronaldo points to the sky after scoring in Portugal's 5-0 win over Armenia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium, Yerevan, Armenia, on the evening of 6/9/2025. Photo: *A Bola*

Martinez also declared Portugal's determination to win the 2026 World Cup for Jota. The late forward scored 14 goals in 49 appearances for Portugal, contributing to their UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.

"We won the Nations League, and Jota was part of that success," the 52-year-old coach expressed. "Jota is strength, he is motivation because he wanted to win the World Cup. As always, we have a responsibility to fight for the people of Portugal, but we have a responsibility to Diogo, and that's very special."

Joao Cancelo celebrates a goal in Jota's signature style.

Portugal, the reigning UEFA Nations League champions and currently ranked sixth in the world, faced 105th-ranked Armenia at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium. The difference in class was evident as Portugal dominated, securing a comfortable 5-0 victory. Ronaldo and Joao Felix each scored twice, with Joao Cancelo adding another goal.

According to Martinez, Portugal had a difficult start but the pressure eased after the opening goal. "It wasn't an easy match. We knew Armenia would defend deep and counter-attack quickly. But the first goal changed everything," he said. "I liked the team's attitude afterward: maintaining discipline, good control, and preventing the opponent's counter-attacks. The five substitutes also played their part, bringing balance throughout the 90 minutes."

Captain Ronaldo also expressed satisfaction with the victory in their opening Group F match of the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers. "First step completed," the 40-year-old forward posted on social media.

On September 9th, Portugal will play their second Group F match against Hungary.

Hong Duy (*A Bola*)