Portugal Player Ratings: Ronaldo Sent Off as Ireland Upset World Cup Hopes

Portugal player ratings took center stage in Dublin as Cristiano Ronaldo’s shocking red card capped a disastrous 2-0 defeat against Ireland, leaving Seleccao fans anxiously awaiting World Cup qualification.

Portugal Player Ratings vs Ireland: Disastrous Night in Dublin

A night meant to edge Portugal closer to the 2026 World Cup instead ended in calamity. Roberto Martinez’s men dominated early possession, holding over 80% in the first 15 minutes. However, their control was sterile as Ireland’s back line, marshaled by Caoimhin Kelleher, absorbed every attack. For more news on international football, visit for more news.

First-Half Struggles: Parrott Strikes Twice

Portugal’s vulnerability was exposed on the counter. After Goncalo Inacio’s risky back pass, Diogo Costa was forced into a rash challenge that led to a corner. Liam Scales nodded the set-piece across goal, and Troy Parrott pounced from close range for Ireland’s opener. Ireland’s forwards, Parrott and Chiedozie Ogbene, consistently stretched Portugal’s high line. Ogbene nearly doubled the lead, but his curling shot clipped the post.

On the stroke of halftime, Parrott struck again, cutting in from the left and threading the ball through Ruben Neves’ legs to make it 2-0. Portugal’s defense looked rattled, and their attack lacked precision and cutting edge.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Red Card: The Turning Point

Frustration reached boiling point in the second half. Cristiano Ronaldo, struggling to impose himself, became visibly agitated as Portugal’s attacks broke down. In a flash of anger, Ronaldo lashed out with an elbow on Dara O’Shea. After a VAR review, the captain was shown a straight red card, leaving his side with ten men.

Ronaldo’s dismissal not only ended his night but also epitomized Portugal’s unraveling. As he exited, miming a crying face to the jeering Aviva Stadium crowd, it became clear Portugal’s hopes were dashed.

Detailed Portugal Player Ratings: Who Struggled Most?

Portugal player ratings reflect a squad under immense pressure:

• Diogo Costa (4/10): Hampered by a poor back pass and a clumsy challenge that led to Ireland’s opener. Unable to rescue his side.
• Joao Cancelo (4/10): Provided little attacking influence and was substituted at halftime after a yellow card.
• Ruben Dias (5/10): Showed moments of defensive composure but struggled to handle Parrott and Ogbene’s pace.
• Goncalo Inacio (3/10): His error led to the first goal, and he endured a torrid half before being replaced.
• Diogo Dalot (4/10): Out of position at left-back, his attacking efforts were off target.
• Ruben Neves (4/10): Often dragged deep to cover defensive lapses, but couldn’t prevent Parrott’s second.
• Vitinha (5/10): Recycled possession but lacked incisiveness.
• Joao Neves (4/10): Energetic yet ultimately ineffective on the ball.
• Joao Felix (4/10): Threatened in spells but lacked confidence at crucial moments.
• Cristiano Ronaldo (2/10): Anonymous before his red card ended Portugal’s fightback hopes.
• Bernardo Silva (4/10): Produced a few dribbles but failed to unlock Ireland’s defense.

Substitutes and Manager

• Nelson Semedo (4/10): Offered little impact.
• Renato Veiga (5/10): Had an easier time after coming on, but did not influence proceedings.
• Trincao (4/10): Struggled to change the tempo post-Ronaldo.
• Rafael Leao (4/10): Failed to make his mark after coming off the bench.
• Goncalo Ramos (5/10): Forced a smart save with a volley, one of Portugal’s few bright moments.
• Roberto Martinez (3/10): Tactically outmaneuvered, with his team lacking direction and urgency.

Ireland’s Game Plan Stifles Portugal’s Attack

Portugal enjoyed lengthy spells of possession but rarely threatened Ireland’s goal. The home side’s disciplined, deep-lying defense frustrated the Seleccao, who managed only speculative efforts. Kelleher had little to worry about, with Portugal’s only real chance coming from a late Goncalo Ramos volley.

Ireland, for their part, executed their plan perfectly—absorbing pressure and striking efficiently on the counter. Parrott’s clinical finishing and Ogbene’s relentless running set the tone, while their defense repelled wave after wave of Portuguese attacks.

Seleccao’s Road to World Cup Qualification Now Uncertain

This defeat means Portugal now must win against Armenia to secure World Cup qualification. The manner of their loss, coupled with Ronaldo’s suspension, will concern fans and coach Martinez alike. The team’s lack of creativity and composure under pressure is a red flag as they prepare for crucial fixtures ahead.

Opinion: Time for Portugal to Reassess Before Crucial Clash

Portugal’s performance in Dublin was well below expectations, with the Portugal player ratings highlighting a squad lacking composure and cohesion. While Ireland’s resolve deserves praise, the Seleccao’s inability to adapt tactically and emotionally, especially after Ronaldo’s red card, is worrying. As they face Armenia with World Cup hopes on the line, a reset in mentality and approach is urgently needed if Portugal wishes to avoid further disappointment. For more news and analysis, be sure to check for more news.