João Félix shone in Portugal’s World Cup qualification campaign with two goals away against Armenia. In Spain, where the forward played for years, the media note that the former wonderkid has been performing better since his move to Al Nassr.
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João Félix continued his resurgence in Portugal’s World Cup Qualification campaign, putting in one of his best performances in recent memory as he scored twice in a dominant 0–5 away victory against Armenia.
The result not only kept Portugal firmly at the top of their group but also reignited optimism about the attacking partnership between Félix and Cristiano Ronaldo, a duo that could prove decisive on the road to the next World Cup.
For Félix, this performance represents far more than just two goals. Long regarded as one of the most talented Portuguese players of his generation, his career has often been defined by inconsistency and the burden of expectation. After his record-breaking transfer to Atlético Madrid, where he struggled to adapt to Diego Simeone’s defensive system, and a difficult loan at Barcelona, many questioned whether he would ever become the superstar once predicted. His move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia was met with skepticism, with critics suggesting he was leaving Europe too early. Yet in Riyadh, under the mentorship of Cristiano Ronaldo, Félix has found confidence, rhythm, and a new hunger.
Spanish outlets, which followed his development closely, were quick to highlight the change. AS wrote: “If Portugal finally manage to integrate João Félix properly, a player who for years raised more questions than answers, their chances of making a big impact at the World Cup increase significantly.” The paper also noted how much sharper and more decisive Félix looks since joining Ronaldo at Al Nassr, where he has already scored a league hat-trick and added another goal in cup competitions.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence is impossible to ignore. At 39, the captain continues to defy age with his relentless scoring record, and he is now just one goal away from setting yet another milestone in World Cup Qualification. But beyond the numbers, his mentorship of younger players Félix most notably is seen as one of his greatest contributions to the Seleção. Reports from Saudi Arabia suggest that Ronaldo has been guiding Félix both on and off the pitch, teaching him the discipline, focus, and killer instinct that have defined his legendary career. Félix’s recent form appears to be the direct result of this mentorship.
Mundo Deportivo captured his impact in Armenia perfectly: “Félix confirmed his good run by opening the scoring with a header from a João Cancelo cross after excellent play down the right wing.” He later doubled his tally with another clinical finish, but perhaps more importantly, he played with freedom, confidence, and purpose qualities that fans have long been desperate to see consistently from him.
Portugal manager Roberto Martínez, who has been carefully reshaping the squad since taking over from Fernando Santos, was full of praise. “João Félix played the most minutes during preparation, and it shows. He has started the new season very well and is clearly in rhythm,” Martínez said. For the Spaniard, Félix’s resurgence is crucial. With Portugal blessed with creative talents like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Rafael Leão, having Félix in top form gives the team another dynamic weapon in attack.
The partnership between Ronaldo and Félix is especially exciting for Portuguese supporters. For years, Ronaldo has carried the national team’s scoring burden almost single-handedly. The possibility of sharing that responsibility with a younger forward who combines flair, intelligence, and technical ability is a tantalizing prospect. “The connection between players at the national team and at their clubs is not decisive, but it certainly helps,” Martínez explained, alluding to the bond Félix and Ronaldo are developing in Saudi Arabia.
The 0–5 victory in Yerevan was also a statement of intent from Portugal as a collective. Beyond Félix and Ronaldo, the team showed depth and balance. Bernardo Silva orchestrated play with his usual precision, Bruno Fernandes provided creativity and leadership, João Cancelo was tireless on the flanks, and Rúben Dias ensured defensive solidity. Such cohesion demonstrates why Portugal are not only favorites in their qualification group but also genuine contenders for the World Cup itself.
Looking ahead, the next test comes quickly. On Tuesday, Portugal face Hungary in what is expected to be a much tougher contest. Hungary have grown into one of Europe’s most disciplined sides, boasting a well-organized defense and a dangerous counterattack. For Félix, the match will be another opportunity to prove that his form is not just a flash in the pan but part of a genuine resurgence. For Ronaldo, it is another chance to chase history. And for Martínez, it is a chance to test whether his attacking philosophy can succeed against a higher-caliber opponent.
For João Félix personally, this period could mark a turning point in his career. From being seen as a failed prodigy weighed down by expectations, he now looks like a player finally ready to take responsibility and thrive under pressure. If he continues to deliver on the international stage alongside Ronaldo, Portugal could enter the World Cup not just as a team with star names, but as one of the most balanced and dangerous squads in world football.
Updated: 01:09, 7 Sep 2025
