The Portugal national team suffered more than expected to defeat Ireland 1–0 in Lisbon, in a 2026 World Cup qualifier that had everything: total domination, a missed penalty by Cristiano Ronaldo, a heroic performance from the opposing goalkeeper, and a last-minute winner from Rúben Neves that sparked relief and euphoria at the Estádio José Alvalade.

Cristiano misses, but Portugal doesn’t give up

The team led by Roberto Martínez was vastly superior from the opening whistle, launching 77 attacks and taking 29 shots. Yet accuracy and luck were nowhere to be found. Cristiano Ronaldo, seeking to extend his all-time scoring record for Portugal, hit the post in the 17th minute and later saw goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher deny him from the penalty spot in the 75th.

The Irish keeper, the undisputed man of the match, also stopped efforts from Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, and Bernardo Silva, keeping the score level as the Portuguese grew increasingly desperate. Despite his missed chances, Ronaldo remained active and involved, though it clearly wasn’t his night.

Ireland, bottom of Group F, barely threatened, with Ebosele forcing a save from Diogo Costa in the 13th minute. Beyond that, the match was a Portuguese monologue — possession, intensity, and a flurry of attacks that seemed destined to end in frustration.

Neves saves the night with a goal of faith

Then, in the 90th minute, the breakthrough finally came. Rúben Neves, the Al Hilal midfielder, rose in the box to head home a perfect cross from Trincão, sealing the win and sending the stadium into jubilation. After scoring, Neves dedicated the goal to the late Diogo Jota, revealing a tattoo on his leg in his honor.

The goal was the just reward for Portugal’s relentless effort, as they never stopped attacking despite earlier frustrations. With this result, Portugal remains perfect in qualifying, leading Group F with nine points, followed by Hungary (4), Armenia (3), and Ireland (1).

Now, Roberto Martínez’s side prepares for their next match against Hungary, once again in Lisbon, with the relief of having escaped what could have been a nightmare. Despite missing his penalty, Cristiano Ronaldo was cheered by the fans and joined in celebrating Neves’ goal — the symbol of a hard-fought, well-deserved victory.