How Ireland rated v Portugal: A collective defensive performance that was so much improved

Caoimhin Kelleher's penalty save capped a fine performance, hard to blame him for late goal

Republic of Ireland players, from left, John Egan, Josh Cullen, Dara O'Shea and Nathan Collins react after conceding their first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F qualifying match between Portugal and Republic of Ireland at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Caoimhin Kelleher 

Top performer. Again. Looked beaten for Cristiano Ronaldo’s shot that came off the post but a surprisingly quiet start to the evening until a very good reactionary stop from a corner approaching the break. Made impressive saves from Ruben Neves and Vitinha around the hour before an utterly brilliant stop with his foot to deny Ronaldo’s penalty. Hard to blame him for the late concession. 8