Ireland Beat Portugal 2-0, Cristiano Received Red Card

Image : Cristiano Ronaldo. Photo : International Media

SAP News, Dublin — The Ireland national team made a big surprise in World Cup qualifying and managed to beat Portugal with a score of 2-0 at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland.

Portugal entered the game as favorites, but Ireland showed a firm, aggressive strategy and high motivation from the game. When the game started, Portugal dominated the ball, but failed because Ireland’s defense was strong and controlled.

Ireland took the first opportunity for a quick counterattack and scored from Troy Parrott in the 17th and 45th minutes. This goal changed the rhythm of the game and put Portugal under pressure.

In the second half, Portugal increased the intensity, but continued to fight to find space to attack and to score but Ireland’s defense with discipline and the goalkeeper’s intervention to prevent the Portuguese player scored.

In the 61st minute, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card and left the field for knocking down an Ireland player in the opponent’s goal line.

After the game, Portugal coach Roberto Martínez said the team “must learn from mistakes” and gave value to Ireland who played with great determination.

“The qualifying is not over. The game is now looking for teaching. We dominated the ball, but Ireland took advantage of strategic moments.”

Ireland coach Stephen Kenny is pleased with the result that Ireland achieved after beating Portugal in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

“The team showed courage. This victory stimulates motivation for the next game.”