Ireland have secured a statement victory against Ronaldo’s Portugal in the latest World Cup qualifier in the Aviva stadium, keeping their hopes alive for World Cup qualification.
In a terrific display of resilience, Ireland through their great defensive work from Séamus Coleman and Jake O’Brien managed to hold off early pressure from the Portuguese side.
In the 17th minute, Troy Parrott scored a header within the six-yard box from a corner, just seconds after being denied a penalty. Esteem and shock filled the stadium as the team were given hope.
Troy Parrott ignites the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup qualifying hopes with this goal after a great assist from Liam Scales.
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The tides turned in the game and the boys in green grew in confidence. Shock arose as right under half time Troy Parrott strook again, this time a more difficult chance.
He slotted the ball in the near post, too far for costa to get his hands on it. The stadium erupted and the win now seemed in their sights going into halftime.
Troy the boy is Ireland’s man. Dream stuff for Ireland, Parrott makes it two in what is proving to be a memorable performance by team and individual
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As the second half began, it started the way the first did with pressure from Portugal.
Controversy arose as a frustrated Ronaldo elbowed Dara O’Shea in the back. The original decision was a yellow card for Ronaldo but after a VAR check, the ultimate decision was red.
Ronaldo made a crying gesture to the Irish fans as he was booed off and shook hands with Hallgrímsson before departing down the tunnel.
Cristiano Ronaldo is given a red card after a VAR review for an elbow
Mimicked tears, a clash with the Ireland manager and an all-time send-off from the crowd follow. Dublin is no longer “lovely” for him
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At this stage Portugal became deflated without their main man. The game became more stagnant with minor chances being created.
Ireland were denied another penalty in the 76th minute after the ball hit Nélson Semedo’s arm in the box. A great save from Caoimhin Kelleher denied Gonçalo Ramos in the 87th minute.
Seven minutes were added on, and Ireland slowed the game down, as the fans eagerly awaited the final whistle.
The whistle finally came, and the fans erupted with cheers as the players celebrated.
A magical night for the Republic of Ireland as a 2-0 victory over Portugal is confirmed.
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Ireland seemed disciplined and in control throughout the game, giving the fans a night to remember and rekindling hopes for the country’s first World Cup qualification since 2002.
The job isn’t done however as a win against Hungary in Budapest on Sunday is vital in the fight for World Cup 2026 qualification.
Final score: Ireland 2-0 Portugal.