Cristiano Ronaldo sent off as Portugal fall 2-0 to Ireland in World Cup qualifier

Cristiano Ronaldo was shown a red card for elbowing Dara O’Shea as Portugal suffered a 2-0 defeat to Ireland on Thursday, missing another opportunity to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Troy Parrott scored both goals in the first half, giving Ireland a memorable victory over Ronaldo and his teammates in a Group F qualifier and keeping their own World Cup hopes alive.

Ronaldo’s dismissal came as Portugal pressed to get back into the game. The 40-year-old captain swung an elbow into O’Shea’s back and was sent off following a VAR review. This marked Ronaldo’s 13th career red card and his first while playing for Portugal.

Despite the loss, Portugal remain top of Group F with 10 points, two ahead of Hungary and three in front of Ireland, with one match left on Sunday. The group winner qualifies automatically for the World Cup, while the runner-up advances to the play-offs.

Parrott, who put Ireland ahead in the 17th minute with a close-range header, doubled the lead just before half-time, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Diogo Costa after cutting in from the left. Speaking after the match, the AZ Alkmaar striker said, “This is probably the best night I have had in my entire life… I am over the moon.”

Portugal dominated possession early on, with João Neves narrowly missing and João Félix heading over as they sought an equalizer. Ireland also had chances, with Chiedozie Ogbene hitting the post as the home crowd erupted.

Ronaldo’s red card compounded Portugal’s frustration, following another setback in October when he missed a penalty against Ireland in Portugal. The forward sarcastically applauded the home fans as he left the field and eventually shook hands with Irish coach Heimir Hallgrimsson, who had urged officials not to be influenced by the superstar.

Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva admitted the team’s disappointment, saying, “We didn’t manage to win; we’re sad and disappointed with what we did here today. Credit to the opponent, who are a very well-organized team and already caused us great difficulties in Portugal.”

AFP