Home / Sports / Portugal Snatch Late World Cup Qualifying Win Against Ireland
Portugal Snatch Late World Cup Qualifying Win Against Ireland
11 Oct
Summary
- Ruben Neves scores injury-time winner for Portugal
- Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty saved by Ireland's Caoimhín Kelleher
- Ireland fought hard but ultimately lost 1-0 in Lisbon
On October 11, 2025, Portugal narrowly defeated the Republic of Ireland 1-0 in a crucial World Cup qualifying match in Lisbon. The game was a tense affair, with Ireland putting up a strong defensive display to frustrate the home side.
Portugal had several chances to take the lead, with Nuno Mendes and Bruno Fernandes both going close in the first half. Cristiano Ronaldo also hit the post with a powerful shot, but the score remained 0-0 at the break.
The second half saw more pressure from Portugal, but Ireland's goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher made several important saves to keep the score level. Ronaldo then had a penalty saved by Kelleher, but Portugal's persistence paid off in the final minute of stoppage time.
Ruben Neves headed home a cross from substitute Nelson Semedo to snatch a late winner for Portugal, breaking Irish hearts and leaving them staring at a difficult path to the World Cup playoffs. The result leaves Portugal in a strong position in Group F, while Ireland must now beat Armenia on Tuesday to keep their hopes alive.
