Neves Scores Late, Portugal Beats Ireland After Ronaldo Penalty Miss

When Rúben Neves, midfielder for the Portugal national football team, slipped the ball into the net in the 90+6 minute, the World Cup qualifier in Lisbon turned from a potential nightmare into a relief‑filled celebration.

The drama unfolded on October 11, 2025 at the Estádio da Luz, where a packed crowd watched Portugal hold a 0-0 stalemate against the Republic of Ireland national football team. The match was part of the UEFA Group C campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Match Overview: A Tense Battle in Lisbon

From the first whistle, the game felt like a chess match. Portugal’s possession‑heavy approach was met by Ireland’s disciplined low block, forcing the Portuguese side to look for breakthroughs on the flanks. By the 18th minute, Diogo Jota tipped a cross just wide. Ireland replied at 64 minutes when James McCarthy headed a corner over the bar.

Statistically, Portugal dominated: 58% possession, 15 shots (six on target) versus Ireland’s eight shots (two on target). Yet the scoreboard remained stubbornly blank.

Key Moments and the Penalty Drama

With the clock ticking past 90 minutes, the breakthrough finally came – but not the one Portugal hoped for. In the 90+2 minute, a reckless challenge on Diogo Dalot inside the box forced the referee to point to the spot.

All eyes turned to the legend. Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s all‑time top scorer, stepped up. The crowd expected another iconic moment; instead, Caoimhín Kelleher, the Irish goalkeeper, dived to his right and smothered the shot with his palms.

"I felt the pressure the instant I placed the ball on the spot," Ronaldo later said in a post‑match interview. "I know I missed, but the team still has a chance. That's what football is about."

Just four minutes later, Ireland thought they might level when Mikey Johnston found himself in a one‑on‑one situation, only to be caught offside as the assistant referee raised his flag at 90+6.

The final gasp came when Neves, feeding off the collective sigh of relief, lofted a long ball into the box. Forward André Silva flicked it back to Neves, who side‑footed it past Irish keeper Kelleher. The net bulged and the stadium erupted.

Group Implications: Portugal Remains Unbeaten

With the 1‑0 win, Portugal sits atop Group C with 9 points from three matches, a +7 goal difference, and a perfect record. Their nearest rivals, Hungary, linger on four points after a 2‑2 draw with Armenia. Ireland remains bottom‑placed with a solitary point.

"The result keeps us on track for the World Cup and shows our mental strength," said Roberto Martínez, Portugal’s head coach. "Even when the star doesn’t deliver, the squad finds a way."

Analyst James Horncastle of The Athletic noted, "Portugal’s ability to grind out results after a missed penalty mirrors their 2022 qualifier against Serbia, where a late goal salvaged a three‑point haul."

Reactions from Both Sides

Irish manager Stephen Kenny praised his side’s resilience: "We gave them everything. Losing a penalty is heartbreaking, but the lads kept fighting until the final whistle. Credit to Neves – a well‑taken goal."

Neves, visibly emotional, told the post‑match press conference, "It was a nerve‑wracking 90 minutes. I just wanted to do what the team needed. Scoring for Portugal, especially after Cristiano’s miss, feels amazing for the fans and my teammates."

What Lies Ahead for Portugal

The next fixture for Portugal comes on November 14, 2025, against Germany in a televised showdown at the Allianz Arena. A win would virtually guarantee a top‑two finish, while a draw would still leave them in a comfortable position.

For Ireland, the road ahead is uphill. Their final group match versus Hungary on December 2 will determine whether they finish with dignity or remain winless. As Kenny reflected, "We must regroup, correct the details that cost us, and go into the next game with belief."

Broader Impact: Portugal’s World Cup Outlook

Portugal’s early dominance in the group suggests a smooth path to the finals in North America. Yet the narrow win against Ireland serves as a reminder that even a squad brimming with talent can stumble. If Ronaldo’s penalty miss is any indicator, the team may need to rely more on collective play than individual brilliance.

With the tournament only two years away, every point counts. The psychological boost from Neves’ clutch moment could prove decisive in tight matches later in the campaign.

Key Facts

• Date: October 11, 2025
• Location: Lisbon, Portugal
• Event: Portugal vs Republic of Ireland World Cup QualifierEstádio da Luz
• Final Score: Portugal 1 – 0 Ireland
• Goal Scorer: Rúben Neves (90+6')