Cristiano Ronaldo, the face of Portugal’s golden generation, found himself at the centre of controversy at the Aviva Stadium as the Republic of Ireland stunned the visitors 2–0. Ronaldo was initially booked for an elbow on Dara O’Shea, but after a pitch-side VAR review, the yellow was upgraded to a red — his first sending-off in 226 Portugal appearances, leaving Portugal down to ten and swinging momentum firmly in Ireland’s favour.
Manager Roberto Martínez publicly defended his captain, calling the sending-off harsh and arguing the replay exaggerated the contact; he also criticised comments from the Ireland camp that suggested referees were being influenced. Despite the loss, Portugal remains top of Group F, but their margin is thin and Ronaldo’s suspension guarantees he will miss the next qualifier — a blow for a side still hunting certainty ahead of the World Cup.
Ireland took full advantage after the sending-off, converting Portugal’s vulnerability into goals and a disciplined display that closed out a landmark 2–0 victory. The result hands Ireland a huge morale boost while forcing Portugal into a nervy finish to the group phase, with one eye now on damage limitation and squad discipline.
France finishes the job, Mbappé shines as Les Bleus qualify
In Paris, France made absolutely sure of their place at the 2026 World Cup, powering past Ukraine 4–0 with Kylian Mbappé the standout performer. France’s clinical showing sealed qualification and allowed Les Bleus to mark a significant victory on an emotional night for the nation.
England keeps rolling with a professional win over Serbia
England maintained their unbeaten qualifying run with a measured 2–0 victory against Serbia. Head coach Thomas Tuchel praised his squad depth after substitutes helped see the game out, with England delivering another clean, functional performance as they continue to build toward next summer’s tournament.
Norway surge closer — Haaland and Sörloth on target
Norway moved to the brink of qualification with a dominant 4–1 win over Estonia. Erling Haaland and Alexander Sörloth took centre stage as the Scandinavians opened up a healthy gap at the top of Group I, leaving them heavily favoured to clinch a spot in North America.
Hungary edges Armenia in tight finish
Hungary grabbed a narrow 1–0 victory away in Yerevan, a result that keeps them firmly in the battle in their group and tightens the race for playoff positions as the final matchday approaches.
Quick takeaway
Thursday’s qualifiers handed up drama and decisive results: Ronaldo’s red card rewrote Portugal’s immediate narrative and raises suspension questions; France and Norway took big steps toward the World Cup; while England and Hungary kept steady, leaving several groups headed to tense final fixtures.
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