By Ashfaq Baig 
Tuesday night delivered a classic split of emotions across Europe’s footballing landscape. England secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a crushing victory. This achievement came with two games to spare. Conversely, Portugal’s qualification celebrations were dramatically halted. Despite a record-breaking performance by Cristiano Ronaldo, they were held to a draw by a resilient Hungary side. The night was a perfect illustration of the highs and lows of international football. England Qualify
England’s Flawless Campaign England Qualify
England became the first European nation to punch their ticket to the tournament, to be held in North America. Their qualification was sealed with a comprehensive 5-0 thrashing of Latvia in Riga. This win maintained their perfect record in Group K. The team, coached by Thomas Tuchel, now boasts six wins from six matches. Furthermore, they have yet to concede a single goal. Consequently, their form has been both dominant and ruthlessly efficient.
The mood in the English camp is understandably excellent. Anthony Gordon opened the scoring, setting the tone early in the match. Then, Captain Harry Kane took center stage. He continued his prolific run, scoring twice in the first half, including one from the penalty spot. Kane’s brace took his tally to a remarkable 21 goals this season for club and country. The second half added to the rout. Maksims Tonisevs scored an unfortunate own goal. Finally, substitute Eberechi Eze netted the fifth. The result gave England an unassailable seven-point lead. Manager Thomas Tuchel expressed his delight. He believes the team still has another level to reach before the World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Historic Feat Denied England Qualify
Meanwhile, in Lisbon, Portugal was on the brink of sealing their own qualification. They were facing Hungary in a Group F clash. The night belonged, at least in part, to the enduring brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo. The 40-year-old superstar had a record in his sights, and he delivered.
Hungary initially took the lead. Attila Szalai scored with a header in the eighth minute. However, Ronaldo quickly responded. He tapped home a low cross from close range, leveling the score. This goal was historic. It marked his 40th in World Cup qualifying, breaking the all-time record previously held by Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz. Ronaldo was not finished there. He scored again just before halftime, finishing a cross from Nuno Mendes. This extended his total World Cup qualifying goals to 41 and his overall international tally to an incredible 143.
Nevertheless, the celebration was cut short. Despite Portugal leading 2-1 as the clock ticked down, Hungary snatched a point. Dominik Szoboszlai scored a dramatic injury-time equalizer. The goal stunned the home fans. Therefore, Portugal’s qualification party was postponed. They still sit five points clear at the top of Group F. They need just one point from their remaining two matches to secure their spot at the finals. Ronaldo, consequently, must wait one more month to confirm his appearance at a record sixth World Cup.
European Qualifying Roundup: Italy and Spain Shine England Qualify
Elsewhere, the race for the remaining European spots continued to heat up. Italy secured a crucial 3-0 victory against Israel in a politically charged match held in Udine. The game was preceded by pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The heavy police presence, including snipers on the stadium roof, underscored the tension surrounding the fixture. Mateo Retegui was the hero for the Azzurri, scoring twice, including a penalty. This win guarantees Italy at least a place in the playoffs. They narrowly trail Norway for the top spot.
European champions Spain also showed their dominance. They secured a comfortable 4-0 win over Bulgaria. Mikel Merino was the star, netting two impressive headers. Spain maintains a perfect record in their group. They have yet to concede a single goal in the qualifying campaign. Thus, they look well-placed to join England at the finals.
Looking Ahead: The Final Stretch England Qualify
England’s early qualification is a major boost for manager Thomas Tuchel. It gives him valuable time to refine his squad and tactics. He can now focus on building upon the team’s momentum. Conversely, Portugal must endure one more month of tension. They need that final point to secure automatic passage.
The drama of European qualification will continue next month. The focus will shift to the final fixtures. Twelve group winners will qualify directly. The runners-up will enter a tense playoff system. Therefore, for many teams, the dream of the 2026 World Cup is still hanging in the balance. England Qualify
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