Cristiano Ronaldo said he was "happy to be back" producing for Portugal after firing in four goals in a 6-0 win against Andorra on Friday.
Ronaldo was injured in this summer's Euro 2016 final, and though his teammates went on to win the trophy that day, they lost their opening World Cup qualifier to Switzerland last month.
But the Real Madrid star returned in style against Andorra with two goals in the first four minutes, and he said the opening stages were always going to be key.
"We knew that the first goal would be really important against a team which puts 11 players behind the ball," Ronaldo said.
"I know I am important, as are all the other players. I have always given everything for the national team, I feel useful and I'm happy to be back after that injury in the European Championship.
"There are eight games to go and we want to win all eight to go to the World Cup."
The game marked the first time Ronaldo had ever scored four times in a game with Portugal, though he has accomplished that feat seven times before with his clubs.
The four goals also brought Ronaldo's international tally to 65, and he will look for more on Monday at the Faroe Islands -- the surprise of Group B so far with four points.
"We cannot forget the Faroe Islands have four points," Portugal coach Fernando Santos said. "They are with the same coach [Lars Olsen] for five years, already drew with Hungary and now won away [at Latvia].
"We have to be fully concentrated."