It was heartbreak for the Republic of Ireland as Ruben Neves’ stoppage-time header secured a dramatic 1-0 win for Portugal in their World Cup qualifier in Lisbon.
The Wolves midfielder scored his first-ever international goal in the 91st minute, rising high to meet Francisco Trincão’s pinpoint cross and steering it past Caoimhin Kelleher. His celebration was deeply emotional — Neves pointed to the sky, then pulled down his sock to reveal a tattoo of Diogo Jota, paying tribute to his friend and former teammate.
The moment of brilliance came just when it seemed Ireland would escape with a hard-fought point.
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Ronaldo Denied from the Spot
Earlier, all eyes were on Cristiano Ronaldo, who had the chance to give Portugal the lead in the 75th minute. However, the Al Nassr forward was denied by Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who guessed right and pushed away Ronaldo’s penalty after Dara O’Shea was adjudged to have handled Trincão’s shot.
It was a rare miss for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has been Portugal’s savior so many times. But on this occasion, it was Ruben Neves who stepped up when it mattered most.
Ireland’s Defensive Effort Falls Short
The Republic of Ireland entered the match determined to bounce back from their shock defeat to Armenia. Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson made several changes, restoring veteran Seamus Coleman to the lineup on his 37th birthday to add leadership and defensive stability.
For much of the game, the Irish defense looked organized and resolute. They blocked, tackled, and frustrated Portugal, closing down spaces and limiting Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva’s creative influence.
However, Ireland’s attacking play lacked cutting edge. The visitors managed only two shots all night, none on target. Young striker Evan Ferguson struggled to find space, touching the ball just 14 times before being replaced by Troy Parrott.
When the final whistle blew, their spirited defensive effort was undone by a single moment of brilliance from Neves.
Group F Standings: Portugal Stay on Top
Portugal’s late win keeps them firmly in control of Group F, now sitting five points ahead of Hungary, who defeated Armenia 2-0 in the day’s other fixture.
The Republic of Ireland, meanwhile, remain bottom of the group with just two points — two behind Armenia. Their next test comes at home in Dublin on Tuesday, where they will desperately need a win to keep their qualifying hopes alive.
What’s Next for Portugal
For Portugal manager Roberto Martínez, the match was another reminder of his team’s resilience. Despite Ronaldo’s missed penalty and Ireland’s defensive stubbornness, his side pushed until the final moment — and were rewarded.
With stars like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, João Cancelo, and Ruben Dias, Portugal continues to look like one of Europe’s strongest teams heading into the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.
Conclusion
It wasn’t vintage Portugal, but it was a night that showcased their depth and determination. Ruben Neves’ first goal for his country couldn’t have come at a better time sealing victory, sparing Ronaldo’s blushes, and sending the Lisbon crowd into jubilation.
For Ireland, it’s another painful reminder that hard work alone isn’t always enough at this level.
