Mascot bursts into tears after meeting Cristiano Ronaldo

A touching scene unfolded ahead of Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against Armenia on Saturday, September 6, 2025, when a young matchday mascot, chosen to walk out with the players, suddenly burst into tears upon realising he was standing beside Cristiano Ronaldo.

The boy, overwhelmed with emotions, could not contain himself as he clutched the captain’s hand. Ronaldo, true to his compassionate nature, leaned down and wrapped him in a warm embrace, consoling him with a reassuring hug.

The tender moment drew smiles from teammates and applauses from fans inside the stadium, capturing the human side of football’s global superstar.

Once the action got underway, Portugal delivered a commanding performance in Yerevan, brushing aside Armenia 5–0 in their opening Group F fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Joao Felix opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a header before Ronaldo doubled the lead in the 21st minute. Joao Cancelo made it 3–0 after half an hour, capping off a dominant first half.

Ronaldo struck again shortly after the break with a thunderous volley, underlining his enduring brilliance at 40 years old. Felix completed the rout with a stylish back-heel finish in the second half.

Watch the Black Stars training session ahead of crucial Mali clash

The match was also tinged with emotion as Portugal paid tribute to Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in August 2025. A minute’s silence was held before kick-off, while Cancelo dedicated his goal to the late forward.

Portugal’s emphatic win places them top of Group F, which also features Armenia, Hungary, and the Republic of Ireland, as they push toward securing direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Watch the video below:

FKA/AE

Meanwhile watch as Black Stars resume training at Accra Sports Stadium ahead of Mali clash