Portugal will rue their inability to fashion a meaningful chance on Caoimhin Kelleher's goal in an opening salvo as Ireland defended resolutely, camped on the edge of their box while the visitors boasted more than 80 percent of possession in the first 15 minutes of action.
The hosts were not cowed by their lack of control, looking to turn the high Portuguese line with long-range passes through the channels, and after a Goncalo Inacio back pass from a rare Irish attack left Diogo Costa short, Ireland won a corner. The resulting ball in was nodded back across goal by Liam Scales, allowing Parrott to turn in from close range.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Goalkeeper & Defence
Diogo Costa (4/10):
Was caught short by a poor back pass in the build up to Ireland's opener, but his lunging tackle was also clumsy. Little he could do about the second.
Joao Cancelo (4/10):
Despite being camped in the Ireland half for the best part of a half, he showed little of his quality in the final third. Subbed at half-time after picking up an early yellow.
Ruben Dias (5/10):
Defended well on the turn at times, but still looked rushed by Parrott and Ogbene.
Goncalo Inacio (3/10):
His terrible back pass could have resulted in a penalty, instead it brought corner that saw Ireland take the lead. The high line did not do him any favours. A torrid time all round. Yanked at half-time.
Diogo Dalot (4/10):
Drafted into the left-back position in Nuno Mendes and Nuno Tavares' absence. Rasped a half-volley over the bar on the stroke of half-time.
Midfield
Midfield
Ruben Neves (4/10):
Found himself dropping in to defensive positions after his centre-backs were turned by Ireland's long balls. Tried valiantly to bloke Parrott's effort for the second goal. A game enough showing.
Vitinha (5/10):
Recycled possession and kept things moving along. Not his fault that there was next to no attacking incision ahead of him.
Joao Neves (4/10):
Energetic and industrious but lacking his usual quality.
Attack
Attack
Joao Felix (4/10):
Got into dangerous areas but looked racked with doubt at the crucial moment.
Cristiano Ronaldo (2/10):
Started with a speculative back heel attempt on goal, followed it up with a tepid free-kick. A largely anonymous first half saw him lose his head in a febrile atmosphere. Deservedly sent off.
Bernardo Silva (4/10):
A few jinking runs aside, a very quiet evening for the Manchester City star.
Subs & Manager
Subs & Manager
Nelson Semedo (4/10):
Chased down some lost causes gamely.
Renato Veiga (5/10):
Ireland's willingness to sit on their lead meant he had an easier 45 minutes than Inacio. Little to report.
Trincao (4/10):
Little impact after his introduction, shortly after Ronaldo's dismissal.
Rafael Leao (4/10):
An anonymous showing off the bench.
Goncalo Ramos (5/10):
His chest and volley was a rare moment of quality for an under-performing outfit. Forced a smart stop out of Kelleher.
Roberto Martinez (3/10):
Devoid of any real tactical ideas. His team look rudderless when Ronaldo has an off night. Is that good enough heading into a major tournament?
