Ronaldo Sent Off as Ireland Shock Portugal to Keep 2026 World Cup Dream Alive
Ireland stunned Portugal 2–0 in Dublin on Thursday, delivering a landmark victory that leaves Cristiano Ronaldo’s side still searching for a place at the 2026 World Cup. Troy Parrott scored twice in a superb first-half display, while Ronaldo was sent off for elbowing Dara O’Shea as Portugal’s frustrations boiled over.
Ireland Keep Qualification Hopes Alive
Parrott’s brace gave Ireland a crucial win that keeps their World Cup hopes intact heading into Sunday’s final round of Group F fixtures. Portugal remain top on 10 points, but now hold only a two-point lead over Hungary and a three-point cushion over Ireland.
The group winners qualify automatically, while the runners-up advance to the play-offs. Earlier in the day, Hungary’s win over Armenia meant Ireland needed at least a draw to stay alive—yet they delivered far more.
“This is probably the best night of my entire life,” Parrott told RTE. “I’m overwhelmed… over the moon.”
Ireland, who last appeared at a World Cup in 2002, produced one of their most significant competitive wins under coach Heimir Hallgrímsson.
Parrott Delivers as Portugal Falter
Portugal controlled possession early, but Ireland remained compact and dangerous in transition. The Aviva Stadium erupted in the 17th minute when Liam Scales headed a corner back across goal for Parrott to nod in from close range.
Portugal responded with pressure: João Neves shot narrowly wide, and João Félix headed over as the visitors pushed for an equaliser. Ireland nearly doubled their lead when Chiedozie Ogbene burst through and struck the post.
Parrott struck again in first-half stoppage time, cutting in from the left to drill a low shot past Diogo Costa at the near post, sending Ireland into halftime with a commanding 2–0 advantage.
Ronaldo Sent Off After VAR Review
Portugal pressed again after the break, but their hopes collapsed when Ronaldo was dismissed in the 60th minute. The 40-year-old striker, visibly frustrated, swung an elbow into O’Shea’s back. After a VAR review, referee Stéphanie Frappart issued a red card—Ronaldo’s 13th career dismissal but his first ever for Portugal.
The forward sarcastically applauded home fans as he left the pitch and exchanged tense words with Hallgrímsson before offering the Ireland coach a handshake.
Ronaldo also missed a penalty when the sides met in Portugal in October, completing a disappointing pair of meetings with Ireland. Depending on the suspension length, he may miss the start of the World Cup should Portugal ultimately qualify.
“We’re sad and disappointed with what we did here today,” Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva said. “Credit to the opponent. They are very well organised and caused us problems in Portugal as well.”
Decisive Final Group Fixtures Ahead
Portugal, Ireland and Hungary all remain in contention heading into Sunday’s final round. Portugal still control their destiny but have now wasted two chances to secure qualification after drawing with Hungary in October and falling in Dublin.
Ireland, buoyed by a historic win and a rejuvenated Parrott, head into their final match with real hope of extending their journey toward the 2026 finals in North America.