Ronaldo’s Penalty Miss Denies Portugal a Smoother Win Over Ireland

October 13, 2025
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Ronaldo’s Penalty Miss Denies Portugal a Smoother Win Over Ireland

In a tense World Cup 2026 qualifying match on Saturday, Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty was saved as Portugal narrowly edged out the Republic of Ireland 1–0 — and it nearly cost them dearly. Reuters+3ESPN.com+3beIN SPORTS+3

⚽ Match Context: Portugal vs Ireland

Date & Fixture: Saturday, October 11, 2025 — Portugal hosted Ireland in a Group F qualifier. Al Jazeera+2ESPN.com+2
Result: 1–0 in favor of Portugal, thanks to a late goal by Rúben Neves in stoppage time. ESPN.com+2Reuters+2
The match was marred by frustration for the hosts, who dominated much of the play but were unable to break through, especially after Ronaldo’s missed opportunity. beIN SPORTS+2Reuters+2

The Penalty Miss: What Happened?

In the 75th minute, a penalty was awarded when a shot from Francisco Trincão struck defender Dara O’Shea’s hand inside the box. Despite protests that the ball had hit his chest, the referee awarded the spot kick. ESPN.com+2beIN SPORTS+2

Ronaldo stepped up and struck the ball down the middle — but Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher guessed right and saved the shot with his trailing foot. Reuters+2beIN SPORTS+2

That save kept the score level, and had Ireland hung on, it would’ve been a stunning result given Portugal’s dominance. Reuters+2Al Jazeera+2

Impact & Aftermath

Ronaldo’s miss put extra pressure on Portugal, especially with the game still level as time ran down. beIN SPORTS+1
Despite the setback, Rúben Neves rose and delivered in the dying moments, heading in a winner to snatch the 1–0 victory. Reuters+2ESPN.com+2
Portugal maintain their perfect start in the group, but fans and pundits alike will question whether Ronaldo should continue as first-choice penalty taker in tight games. Reuters+2beIN SPORTS+2

Support Ronaldo & Portugal — Shop the Kit

Don’t let a missed penalty dampen your spirit. Show your support with the latest Portugal national team kits — perfect for loyal fans who back their team in highs and lows: