Republic of Ireland Stun Portugal in World Cup Qualifier
Cristiano Ronaldo received the first red card of his international career as Portugal fell 2-0 to the Republic of Ireland in a dramatic World Cup qualifying upset at the Aviva Stadium.
Ireland struck twice in the first half through Troy Parrott, whose composed double gave the hosts full control. Portugal’s night worsened on the hour mark when Ronaldo elbowed Dara O’Shea, initially earning a yellow card. After a VAR check, referee Glenn Nyberg upgraded it to a straight red, ending Ronaldo’s 226th appearance for his country in controversy.
“Ronaldo tried to be a good boy, but frustration got the better of him,” one Irish fan joked after the match.
Portugal would have sealed qualification with a win, but instead must wait—while Ireland keep their hopes alive. Roberto Martinez’s side will now be without Ronaldo on Sunday against Armenia, with the disciplinary committee set to determine the length of his ban.
Ireland, meanwhile, will secure a play-off spot if they defeat Hungary in Budapest.
Ronaldo’s Frustration Boils Over
Just a day before the match, Ronaldo promised to avoid confrontation with Irish fans, but the opposite unfolded. The Al-Nassr forward lashed out inside the box, then sarcastically applauded the Dublin crowd after being sent off. He even exchanged sharp words with Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson before leaving the pitch.
Portugal were already lacking spark without the suspended Bruno Fernandes. Missed chances from Joao Felix and Vitinha highlighted a rare off-night for the Euro 2016 champions, whose last defeat came seven months ago.
“We needed calm, not chaos — but today everything went wrong,” a Portuguese analyst said after the final whistle.
Despite the setback, Portugal remain on track to qualify with a win over Armenia.
Ireland’s Best Performance Under Hallgrimsson
Earlier results meant Ireland needed victory to keep their campaign alive, and they delivered their strongest display of the Hallgrimsson era. Even without injured star Evan Ferguson, Troy Parrott rose to the occasion.
The AZ Alkmaar striker pressed relentlessly, forced Diogo Costa into early mistakes, and scored twice—first tapping in from close range, then beating Costa at the near post on a brilliant solo run just before halftime.
Chiedozie Ogbene also tormented the Portuguese defence and struck the post with a curling effort. In the second half, Ireland held firm, with Kelleher denying Gonçalo Ramos to preserve a historic win.
The result marks Ireland’s first competitive victory over Portugal since 1995 and keeps their World Cup dream alive.
Also Read: England Maintain Perfect World Cup Qualifying Run with Win Over Serbia
