"Troy Parrott gave the Republic of Ireland's World Cup 2026 qualification hopes a much-needed boost by scoring the opener against the run of play at home to Portugal in their penultimate match of the campaign. The Selecao monopolised possession during the early stages in Dublin before Liam Scales charged to the far post to nod Jack Taylor's corner back in front of goal, where AZ Alkmaar forward Parrott headed in."
"The visitors, who close their campaign at home to Armenia on Sunday, would be two points clear at the top of the table ahead of the final round of games even if they lose, while Ireland will be unable to qualify if they suffer defeat. Should they win, Ireland would require a win in Hungary on Sunday to guarantee at least second place, which would earn Heimir Hallgrímsson's team a play-off place in March 2026."
Troy Parrott scored the opening goal for the Republic of Ireland in the 17th minute, heading in Jack Taylor's corner after Liam Scales nodded the ball back into the danger area. Portugal dominated early possession but fell behind, with Cristiano Ronaldo visibly urging teammates to respond. Chiedozie Ogbene nearly doubled the lead in the 38th minute when his low shot struck the far post. Portugal will remain two points clear at the top regardless of the final round result. Ireland cannot qualify with a defeat; a win would require a subsequent victory in Hungary to secure at least second place and a March 2026 play-off.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]