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<p>6th All-Time Goalscorer</p>
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<img alt="Bruno Fernandes: The Key Player for Portugal" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/portugal-spot-1763383210-183018.png" title="Bruno Fernandes: The Key Player for Portugal" />
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<p>Bruno Fernandes played a pivotal role in leading Portugal to World Cup qualification with a commanding 9-1 victory over Armenia. Following Cristiano Ronaldo's unexpected red card during a loss to Ireland earlier in the week, Portugal needed only a draw against Armenia to secure their spot but showcased their prowess instead.</p>
<p>Portugal boasts the sixth most valuable squad globally, and their attacking players excelled against Armenia. PSG's João Neves contributed with a hat-trick, but Fernandes was the standout performer, captaining the side in Ronaldo's absence. The Manchester United star matched Neves with his own hat-trick and added an assist, further establishing his claim as one of Portugal's most essential players.</p>
<h2>Is Bruno Fernandes the Most Crucial Player for Portugal?</h2>
<p>Ronaldo's suspension sparked discussions about whether the team functions better as a cohesive attacking unit without their record scorer. While Ronaldo remains Portugal's all-time best and has scored vital goals, he is no longer at his peak. There is often a tendency for teammates to seek him out, which can disrupt the team's fluidity. Fernandes tends to thrive when Ronaldo is sidelined, allowing for a more dynamic front three. During the match against Armenia, while Gonçalo Ramos took Ronaldo's place, it was Fernandes who outshone everyone.</p>
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<p>The 31-year-old took advantage of penalty responsibilities, scoring two spot-kicks that brought his international tally to 28 goals, placing him as Portugal's sixth all-time top scorer. Known for his creativity, Fernandes has impressively contributed to 37 goals in his last 40 matches with the national team. His role as an attacking midfielder is central to Portugal's strategy, highlighted by his absence in the surprising defeat to Ireland.</p>
<h2>Perspectives on Bruno Fernandes from Portugal</h2>
<p>Ronaldo may miss one or two of Portugal's opening matches if FIFA extends his suspension. It remains to be seen whether manager Roberto Martínez would bench him, but Fernandes is certainly a guaranteed starter. Gonçalo Tristão Santos, Transfermarkt’s Area Manager in Portugal, acknowledges the undeniable impact of Fernandes.</p>
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<p>“Fernandes is currently one of the best players in the Portuguese national team,” stated Santos. “His influence is evident on the field: in 85 caps for Portugal, he has already amassed 28 goals and 24 assists. It's hard to envision a starting eleven without him. Portugal has many talented attacking and midfield players, but he is indispensable in Martínez’s lineup. His presence on the pitch makes a noticeable difference in Portugal's performance.”</p>
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