Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off as the Republic of Ireland defeated Portugal 2-0, forcing Roberto Martinez’s team to wait to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
The reigning Nations League champions believed a win would be enough to secure their spot in next summer’s competition, but a Troy Parrott double ended that prospect.
The former Tottenham and current AZ Alkmaar striker opened the goal just after the 15-minute mark with a close-range header, then doubled Ireland’s lead on the stroke of halftime.
Portugal’s hopes of making a comeback were dashed when talisman Ronaldo was sent off for elbowing defender Dara O’Shea off the ball.
Ronaldo was first given a yellow card for the incident, but the punishment was enhanced after a VAR review.
Portugal will now have to overcome Armenia on Sunday to qualify for the World Cup, while Ireland will face Hungary on Sunday, knowing that a win would guarantee at least second place in the group.
