Ireland produced one of their finest performances in years as they stunned Portugal 2-0 in Dublin on 13 November 2025, keeping their narrow route to next year’s World Cup alive and delaying Portugal’s automatic qualification. The night took an even more dramatic turn when Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off for the first time in his long international career.
Ireland’s best night in years
Ireland, without a major tournament appearance since 2016 and absent from the World Cup stage since 2002, needed at least a point to stay alive in Group F. Instead, they delivered a statement victory built around a superb first-half brace from Troy Parrott.
“It’s probably the best night of my whole life,” Parrott said afterwards. “It’s such a relief to see the hard work paying off. We all knew how important this game was.”
Ireland must now win in Budapest on Sunday to secure a place in next March’s playoffs, after Hungary defeated Armenia 1-0.
Ronaldo sees red for the first time with Portugal
Portugal, who required only a draw at home to Armenia to seal World Cup qualification, were rocked on the hour when Ronaldo received a red card on VAR review. His initial yellow—shown for swinging an elbow into Dara O’Shea’s back—was upgraded, marking the first dismissal of his 226-cap international career.
Already trailing 2-0, Portugal’s hopes of a comeback evaporated. As he walked off, Ronaldo sarcastically applauded the jubilant home crowd.
Parrott punishes Portugal
Ireland took the lead on 17 minutes when Liam Scales headed a whipped corner back across goal for Parrott to finish from close range. Minutes later, Chiedozie Ogbene struck the post with a curling effort as Ireland pressed for more.
The second arrived just before half-time: Parrott, full of confidence, drilled a low shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box to complete his brace.
With Ronaldo dismissed, Ireland managed the second half comfortably, avoiding the late heartbreak they suffered in the reverse fixture.
Portugal remain top of Group F, two points clear of Hungary with a superior goal difference, and are guaranteed at least a playoff berth. Ireland sit one point further back and must win in Hungary to keep their World Cup dream alive.
