Portugal edge past stubborn Ireland with late Neves strike in Lisbon

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Portugal left it late to secure victory over the Republic of Ireland as Rúben Neves’ stoppage-time goal earned Roberto Martínez’s men a hard-fought 1-0 win in a tense World Cup qualifier on Saturday night in Lisbon.

The match seemed destined for a goalless draw until the 92nd minute, when substitute Trincão whipped in a teasing cross that found Neves ghosting into the box.

The midfielder produced a composed finish, rifling the ball into the top-right corner beyond Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to send the home fans into raptures.

Portugal had dominated the encounter, registering 26 attempts to Ireland’s one, but a mixture of wasteful finishing and resilient defending from the visitors kept the scoreline level for much of the game.

Cristiano Ronaldo, earning another cap for his country, endured a frustrating night. The veteran forward missed a penalty in the 75th minute, his tame effort easily saved by Kelleher, who guessed correctly and stood firm.

Earlier, Rafael Leão came close to breaking the deadlock when his curling shot from the edge of the box drifted inches past the post, while Bruno Fernandes saw his long-range drive comfortably gathered by Kelleher.

Bernardo Silva and Nuno Mendes were also constant threats down the flanks, but Ireland’s defence, marshalled by Dara O’Shea and Nathan Collins, held firm for most of the game.

Ireland, led by Heimir Hallgrímsson, offered little attacking threat, with Evan Ferguson and Chiedozie Ogbene starved of service for large spells.

Their best moment came late in the match when Jayson Molumby’s effort from distance was blocked on the edge of the box.

The game turned increasingly physical as tempers flared, with several players, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Molumby, receiving yellow cards from Slovak referee Ivan Kruzliak.

Despite the missed penalty, Portugal’s persistence paid off deep into stoppage time as Neves’ clinical finish sealed all three points.

The result strengthens Portugal’s position in their World Cup qualifying group, while Ireland remain near the bottom after another narrow defeat.

Portugal now turn their attention to their next qualifier, hoping to build on this hard-earned win, while Ireland will look to regroup ahead of their upcoming fixtures.