What a famous win for the Boys in Green.
A game that could not have gone much better for Ireland and manager Heimir Hallgrimsson.
Troy Parrott proved himself with a brilliant double, while a petulant Ronaldo saw red after an elbow on Dara O’Shea.
A win against Hungary on Sunday is still needed, however.
Caoimhín Kelleher – 7.5
Was fairly error-free as usual, but with such a sturdy defence in front of him, and a misfiring Portugal, he did not have much to do for most of the game.
However, he stood up when needed and kept Portugal out with a great low save in the 87th minute.
Nathan Collins – 7.5
The performance we have been waiting for from one of Ireland’s main leaders.
Was a wall alongside O’Shea and Scales.
Liam Scales – 8
A heap of defensive stops, coupled with a great headed assist for Parrott’s first.
Dara O’Shea – 8.5
Had the most defensive contributions of anyone on the pitch, with multiple blocks, clearances, tackles, and interceptions.
Did well to milk the Ronaldo elbow and get Portugal’s talisman sent off.
Jake O’Brien – 7.5
Séamus Coleman – 8
May not have stacked the stat sheet as much as his fellow defenders, but the captain organised everything and made sure the focus and desire never faded.
Josh Cullen – 7.5
A brilliant corner set up Ireland’s first goal and gave them belief.
Jack Taylor – 7
A solid outing on a rare start for the Ipswich man.
Finn Azaz – 7
Got into really good positions throughout the game, but squandered a few chances.
Chiedozie Ogbene – 9
Probably his finest day in green, and there’s a good chance nobody has run more for Ireland since the days of Keane.
Was tireless in both defence and attack, and also hit the post with a brilliant shot from a tough angle.
Troy Parrott – 9.5
Well that’s that debate over. Parrott is clearly the man to lead Ireland’s line.
Nice finish for his first, and a beauty for his second.
His hold-up play was excellent as well.
Subs:
Conor Coventry – 7
Adam Idah – 7
Festy Ebosele – 7
Mikey Johnston – 6
Jimmy Dunne – 7
