At Estádio da Luz on 16 November 2025, Portugal host Armenia in a qualifier where the home side suddenly find themselves under pressure following an unexpected setback. With first place not yet secured, this match regains major significance for Roberto Martínez’s team.
Portugal Seeking Immediate Redemption
Portugal’s 0–2 defeat away to Ireland on Thursday was one of the biggest surprises of the entire qualifying cycle. Beyond the result itself, the match brought additional consequences: Cristiano Ronaldo received the first red card of his international career and is now suspended for this fixture. Even without their captain, Portugal possess considerable depth and attacking talent, and the expectation is for a forceful response in Lisbon. They remain top of the group, but with Ireland still within reach, Portugal cannot afford another misstep. At home, they typically play with far greater fluidity and intensity, which should help restore confidence.
Armenia Struggling at the Bottom
Armenia remain anchored to last place, with their qualifying campaign defined by offensive difficulties and heavy defeats. Their lone victory - a 2–1 home win over Ireland - stands out as the exception, as their other four matches all ended in losses without scoring a single goal. This includes the emphatic 0–5 defeat to Portugal in Yerevan earlier in the campaign, a match that highlighted the gulf in individual quality and tactical execution. Armenia will likely defend deep once again, but their recent form offers little to suggest they can contain Portugal for long stretches.
Prediction: Over 3.5 Goals
With Portugal eager to bounce back, playing at home, and facing an Armenia side that has repeatedly struggled defensively, a high-scoring match is the most likely scenario. Even in Ronaldo’s absence, the hosts have enough firepower to dominate and create numerous chances. The selection is Over 3.5 goals, expecting Portugal to respond with conviction and control.
