Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa spoke about his nation's qualification for the World Cup following Portugal's victory over Armenia.

"This is the match of my life and the lives of many Portuguese," de Sousa remarked. "We've experienced more thrilling matches that ended in victories, but a 9-1 result is rare-it could easily have been 10-1 or even 11-1. It was an extraordinary game."

The president went on to note the special timing, saying, "We have qualified for the World Cup, and by happy coincidence I had already scheduled the ceremony for awarding medals for winning the Nations League. It's a wonderful combination."

Addressing Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from the match, de Sousa commented, "Ronaldo always has his place-he will always be in our hearts. He is part of our gratitude for so many happy moments. I'm sure he's very sorry he could not be here today; it really is a pity."

He added, "He missed a match where it was important to have the captain present-but that's how it goes with geniuses sometimes. Credit must go to Roberto Martínez as well; he truly deserves it."