Ireland Stuns Portugal 2-0 As Ronaldo Sees Red in World Cup Qualifier

- by Olatunji Johnson

Troy Parrott’s two goals and a controversial red card for Cristiano Ronaldo define a shocking night in Dublin that revives Irish World Cup hopes.

The Republic of Ireland delivered a stunning 2-0 upset over Portugal in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, a victory defined by a young hero’s brilliance and a superstar’s moment of madness. Striker Troy Parrott scored both goals, while Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off with a straight red card for violent conduct.

The result keeps Ireland’s qualification hopes alive heading into the final group match, moving them to within three points of group leaders Portugal.

“This is probably the best night I have had in my entire life,” an emotional Parrott said after the match. “I am overwhelmed… I don’t know what words to use, but I am over the moon.”

The match turned decisively just after the hour mark. With Portugal frustrated and chasing a two-goal deficit, Ronaldo swung an elbow into the back of Irish defender Dara O’Shea. After a VAR review, the referee dismissed the 40-year-old, marking his first-ever red card for his national team.

The sending-off capped a miserable night for the visitors, who had been outplayed by a disciplined and fierce Irish side. Parrott first struck in the 17th minute, heading in from close range. He then doubled the lead right before halftime, cutting in from the left and driving a low shot past the goalkeeper at the near post.

“We’re sad and disappointed with what we did here today,” said Portugal’s Bernardo Silva. “Credit to the opponent, who are a very well-organized team.”

For Ireland, the famous victory revives the dream of a first World Cup appearance since 2002, setting up a dramatic finale to the qualifying campaign on Sunday.

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