Cristiano Ronaldo’s dismissal was the only thing that stopped Portugal from securing their place in next summer’s World Cup. A Troy Parrott double ended any hopes of qualifying for this year’s event.
Image:
Troy Parrott celebrating doubling Republic of Ireland’s lead over Portugal
Former Tottenham striker, now at AZ Alkmaar, opened the scoring after 15 minutes with a close range header. He then doubled Ireland’s lead on the stroke before half time. Portugal’s chances of a comeback was harmed by the sending off of Ronaldo for swinging a elbow off the ball to defender Dara o’Shea.
Image:
Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off for fouling Dara O’Shea
Ronaldo received an initial yellow card but was upgraded to a caution after VAR reviewed the incident.
Portugal must now beat Armenia on the Sunday in order to qualify for the World Cup. Ireland will play Hungary on the Sunday knowing that a win would ensure at least second place in the group.
Image:
Cristiano Ronaldo’s yellow card has been upgraded to red
France secures World Cup place as Italy forces Norway to wait
Image:
Kylian Mbappe’s goal helped France to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup
Kylian Mbappe’s double helped Didier deschamps’ side defeat Ukraine by 4-0 at Parc des Princes.
Mbappe and Olise both scored before Hugo Ekitike, of Liverpool, completed the scoring. Les Bleus, who have reached the final of each of the past two World Cups, confirmed their place.
Image:
Erling haaland celebrates scoring Norway’s second goal against Estonia
Manchester City scored two goals in the second half of 12 minutes. City Norway’s passage would have been secured if Italy lost the match against Moldova. Gianluca Manncini and Francesco Pio Esposito’s late goals delayed the Azzurri from what seemed to be inevitable.
Image:
Italy’s win over Moldova forced Norway to wait for qualification to the World Cup
Norway’s final qualifying game will be played in Italy. The hosts must win the match and score 17 goals to overtake the current Group I leader.
2025-11-13 21:50:00
Discover more from sportscraper.co.uk
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
