Ireland 2-0 Portugal: Troy Parrott's brace, brave Irish defence and a frustrating end to Ronaldo's World Cup qualifying career
Troy Parrott's first-half brace secured a 2-0 victory for the Republic of Ireland against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal at the Aviva Stadium, keeping their World Cup hopes alive.
Last Updated: 04.05 AM, Nov 14, 2025
Troy Parrott's first-half brace helped the Republic of Ireland get a famous 2-0 win over Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, on Thursday, to keep their FIFA World Cup hopes alive. Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off for the first time in his international career after an elbow to Dara O'Shea.
Portugal started well, but Ireland struck first
Within the first few minutes of the whistle, Cristiano Ronaldo attempted a cheeky flick, which was easily saved by goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher. Portugal then tried to create chances early with crosses from Ruben Neves and attempts from Vitinha and Joao Felix, but Ireland's defence stood firm.
Ireland's breakthrough came in the 18th minute, a moment that rattled the visitors. Troy Parrott, who was coming into the match after recovering from an injury, pressed hard to force Diogo Costa to make a mistake, which led to Parrott winning a corner.
After winning a corner, the ball was headed on by Lewis Scales at the far post and met perfectly by Troy Parrott, who nodded it into the net from close range.
Parrott's second goal gave Ireland the belief
Despite Portugal's attempts to respond, Ireland's defensive line, marshalled superbly by captain Nathan Collins and supported by Seamus Coleman, cut off multiple threatening moves.
Azaz and Ogbene provided energy on the wings, with Ogbene narrowly missing a chance that hit the post just before half-time.
Ruben Dias and Bernardo Silva tried to create opportunities for Portugal with crosses and passes, but they struggled to break through the Irish wall.
Ireland doubled their advantage deep into first-half injury time at 45'+1. In a swift counter, Parrott again showcased his skill and composure. Receiving the ball on the left wing, he cut inside and fired a crisp finish into the back of the net, leaving Portugal stunned at 2-0. The goal was held after a VAR check for offside, giving Ireland a commanding half-time lead.
Ronaldo's shocking red card
The second half saw Portugal push forward with more urgency, bringing on Nélson Semedo and Renato Veiga to inject pace and creativity. However, the momentum swung further when Ronaldo, already under pressure, received a yellow card in the 59th minute for a foul on O'Shea, and then a VAR review showed a direct red card for an elbow incident shortly after in the 61st minute.
This was a massive blow for Portugal, with Ronaldo likely ending his World Cup qualification campaign prematurely.
Irish defence stood like a brave wall
Portugal tried to adapt, with Gonçalo Ramos and Rafael Leão coming on to bolster the attack. They adopted a 4-4-1 formation, aiming to claw back the deficit.
Despite some good build-up and crosses, Ireland's organised defence kept blocking efforts.
Keeper Kelleher made several critical saves, especially stopping a powerful volley by Ramos near the 88th minute. But, in the end, Portugal were not able to break through the brave and focused Irish defence.
Can Portugal still qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026?
With 10 points, Portugal are still at the top of Group F. If they can beat Armenia, they will qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 comfortably. But if they lose the next match, they will have to pray that Ireland beat Hungary, which will make Ireland qualify for the playoffs.
If Hungary win and Portugal also face a defeat, the group winner will be decided on goal difference.
For Ireland they only have the chance to qualify for the playoffs as the second-best team from the group. The playoffs will be played in March 2026.