For Martínez, this match is about balancing his extraordinary pool of talent with the need for consistency. His Portugal squad is stacked from back to front, with the kind of depth that most managers can only dream of.

At the heart of it all remains Cristiano Ronaldo. At 40, the legendary forward is no longer the unstoppable force of a decade ago, but his presence still dominates matches. Whether he starts or comes on from the bench, Ronaldo’s hunger for goals — and records — makes him impossible to ignore.

Yet this Portugal side is far from a one-man show. Bruno Fernandes has become the brain of the team, dictating play with his passing range and late runs into the box. On the wings, Rafael Leão offers explosive pace while Bernardo Silva provides calm, clever link-up play. Behind them, Rúben Dias organises a solid defence, and in goal, Diogo Costa continues to prove himself one of Europe’s most reliable shot-stoppers.

Portugal will expect to dominate possession and territory, but the question is whether they can break Armenia down without leaving themselves exposed at the back.

Armenia’s Pride and Passion

For Armenia, matches like this are about pride, resilience, and making their supporters believe. Results in recent years have been mixed, but they have shown on occasion that they can rise to the moment against stronger sides.

Much will depend on Eduard Spertsyan, the 24-year-old midfielder who has become Armenia’s creative heartbeat. His ability to carry the ball and deliver quality passes makes him their best hope of troubling Portugal. Around him, Armenia will rely on a compact defensive shape, doubling up on Portugal’s wingers and trying to frustrate their rhythm.

The stadium atmosphere will also be a factor. In Yerevan, fans are loud, passionate, and relentless. Every challenge will be cheered, every clearance celebrated. For Armenia, that energy could help them push beyond their limits.

Storylines to Watch

One subplot is whether Martínez starts Ronaldo or saves him as an impact substitute. Against deep-defending teams, Portugal often need patience, and Ronaldo’s penalty-box instincts can be decisive late on.

Another is the midfield battle. Fernandes will try to control tempo, but Spertsyan’s ability to launch counters could expose Portugal if they commit too many players forward. Set pieces could also matter — Armenia have made them a weapon, while Portugal boast aerial threats of their own in Dias and Ronaldo.

Why It Matters

For Portugal, three points are non-negotiable. They are expected to top the group, and slipping against Armenia would be seen as a major setback. For Martínez, it is also about refining combinations and building chemistry ahead of tougher challenges later in the campaign.

For Armenia, the stakes are different but no less important. A result here, even a draw, would send a message that they are not just group passengers. It would lift spirits and give their players the kind of confidence that can only come from competing with the best.

Prediction

Armenia will fight with heart, and Yerevan will roar them on, but Portugal’s quality should tell. Expect the hosts to resist for a while, but once the deadlock is broken, the floodgates may open.

Prediction: Armenia 0–3 Portugal

Conclusion

Saturday’s clash pits ambition against pedigree. Armenia will hope passion and discipline can tilt the balance, while Portugal will rely on their star power to secure another step toward 2026. For Ronaldo, it’s another chance to add to his astonishing legacy; for Martínez, it’s about keeping his side sharp and focused.