Portugal’s national football team embarks on a new quest to reach the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Coming up for the Netherlands is a must-win home match against Armenia. Scheduled for September 6 at 8 PM local time (16:00 GMT), this UEFA qualifying fixture will take place at the Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium in Yerevan. It’s an emotionally charged match for the team under normal circumstances. They’re dedicating their mission to their late teammate, Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life earlier this year.
Portugal’s roster for this critical match includes a number of familiar names. Among their ranks are Costa, Cancelo, Dias, A. Silva, Mendes, Fernandes, R. Neves, Bernardo, Conceicao and Ronaldo & Neto. Midfielder Ruben Neves will be wearing the coveted number 21 shirt with pride. This symbolic gesture pays tribute to his lasting friendship with Jota. He’s recently unveiled a tattoo on his left calf in honour of Jota.
Recent Achievements and Historical Context
Congratulations to Portugal for a huge victory this week! Champions after defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties in the memorable 2025 final. This match up marked the seventh straight match that has pitted these two fierce rivals against each other. Portugal won four of those matches and drew two.
In the bracket that would eventually send Portugal to the final, Portugal got the better of Germany in the semifinals and Spain got the best of France. And finally, as Portugal get ready to play Armenia on Thursday, they look to carry over the last month’s worth of winning ways into their European Championship qualifying campaign.
“I and the entire national team will do everything we can to keep Diogo here with us, on our team,” – Ruben Neves
Portugal’s last match against Armenia came in 2015, in a Euro qualifier. Instead they nailed down an incredible 3-2 come from behind win on Armenian soil. Cristiano Ronaldo was particularly prolific, netting five goals in four matches with Armenia, including a hat-trick in their last match against them.
Squad Changes and Challenges
As Portugal prepares to face Armenia in their opening Euro 2024 qualifier, it’ll be interesting to see how they manage some key roster challenges. Forward Rafael Leao is out with a calf injury. Diogo Dalot has withdrawn from the squad due to a muscular injury. Through these disappointments, the squad continues to fixate on their pursuit of the primary goal of World Cup qualification.
Additionally, Portugal’s football federation has made it clear that the squad consists of “23 (+1)” players, a tribute to Diogo Jota’s legacy. The team and their fans are highly impacted. This is something with that field. It brings home the point that Jota’s spirit is totally ingrained in this squad.
“Who loved football; who loved their country; who loved their national team; men who defended, with courage and dedication, the colours of our flag” – Pedro Proenca
With Lucas Zelarayan and Grant-Leon Ranos leading the way, among others, into first-team plans. Portugal looking to grab desperately needed points against Armenia.
Looking Ahead
As the game convenes, Portugal’s players remain focused on their mission to pay tribute to their deceased friend. They have their eyes solely on winning success on the pitch. With all of the emotional impact behind this match, supporting our efforts by donating would be a huge help. It’s a great reminder of the powerful solidarity that holds our team together.
Portugal arrives with a dynamic combination of experienced stars and great, young talent. They’re looking to announce themselves with a bang in their first competitive FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier. The upcoming game against Armenia presents an opportunity not just for victory but to celebrate the life and legacy of Diogo Jota.
