So close but a proud performance.
Check out our player ratings after Ireland were beaten by a Ruben Neves winner in the 91st minute at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon.
Caoimhin Kelleher – 8.5
One of the great keeping performance’s in the nation’s history from Ireland’s best player, and one of the best penalty saves you will likely to see, from Ronaldo.
Was beaten by the Portuguese legend in the first half, but did well to avoid an own goal when the ball came back off the post, before Bernardo Silva missed a sitter.
Made more of big saves in the second half, but perhaps could have done better for the Ruben Neves winner.
Seamus Coleman – 6.5
Adds an air of calmness and organisation to the team that was so badly missing against Armenia.
37 years old, but he is still vital to this side.
Dara O’Shea – 5
The penalty decision was questionable, but he left himself vulnerable keeping his right arm up.
He owes Kelleher a pint.
Nathan Collins – 7
The Brentford Collins showed up today.
Made a magnificently brave block in the first half which likely saved a goal.
Jake O’Brien – 7.5
A huge defensive effort from the big man.
Was either top or top two in a handful of key stats, both defensively and in attack.
Ryan Manning – 6.5
Slightly quieter than some of his other teammates at the back, but only just.
Worked tirelessly.
Josh Cullen – 6
More like the Burnley Cullen we are used to.
Put himself about.
Jayson Molumby – 7
The best showing by any Irish midfielder this campaign, and has solidified his place in the side.
Passed well and won his duels.
Festy Ebsoele – 7
Was so dangerous down the right, and made a mockery of the decision to leave him out of the last squad.
Had an amazing moment in the first half when he beat Nuno Mendes for pace after knocking the ball past him.
Could work on his crossing.
Chiedozie Ogbene – 7
He wasn’t fully fit when brought back for the Armenia game, and was much more effective this evening.
Our most consistent attacking outlet, and kept the ball well with little help in the Portugal half.
Evan Ferguson – 5
Wasn’t bad by any means but saw very little ball.
Not the game for him.
Replacements:
John Egan – 5
Will Smallbone – 5
Mikey Johnston – 5.5
Troy Parrot – 5
