Cristiano Ronaldo has once again proven that his legendary status in Portugal remains unshaken, even after missing a penalty during the 2026 World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.
The Al-Nassr superstar saw his 75th-minute spot-kick saved by former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, but teammate Ruben Neves rescued the night with a dramatic 91st-minute winner. The late strike ensured Portugal maintained their perfect record in Group A, extending their unbeaten run to three straight victories.
Neves’ Redemption and Jota Tribute
Ronaldo’s missed opportunity briefly put Portugal’s hopes in doubt. His attempt, struck firmly down the middle, lacked elevation and was deflected away by Kelleher’s outstretched leg. Moments later, Neves—now playing for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia—curled in a stunning finish before dedicating his goal to Diogo Jota, his former international teammate.
The victory kept Portugal at the top of their group and within touching distance of another World Cup appearance.
Ronaldo’s Reaction and Near-Historic Moment
The 40-year-old forward looked visibly distraught after the miss, covering his face in disbelief as he walked away. A successful conversion would have given him sole ownership of yet another record — the most goals in World Cup qualifying history. Ronaldo remains tied with Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz at 39 goals, one short of setting a new benchmark.
Despite the setback, the veteran striker completed the full 90 minutes and received loud applause from fans, reaffirming his enduring popularity at home and abroad.
“Cristiano Doesn’t Have to Apologise for Anything”
Following the match, Renato Veiga defended the captain’s missed penalty, praising Ronaldo’s influence on Portuguese football.
“Cristiano doesn’t have to apologise for anything,” Veiga told reporters.
“For everything he has done for Portugal and what he continues to do, he deserves only respect. He gave a great performance.”
Ronaldo briefly apologised to supporters in the stadium, holding his hands up to acknowledge the miss — a gesture met with chants of encouragement from the stands.
A Legacy Beyond One Miss
Nobody in Portugal is questioning Ronaldo’s contribution. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the national team’s all-time top scorer with 141 international goals in 224 appearances. His honours include the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League trophies, and he continues to chase an unprecedented 1,000 career goals across club and international football.
Focus on World Cup Qualification
With Roberto Martinez managing a talented squad featuring Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix, Ruben Dias, Vitinha, and Rafael Leao, Portugal are seen as one of the favourites to lift the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Still, Veiga stressed that the focus must remain on the qualification campaign:
“Before we talk about the World Cup itself, we need to qualify first. This victory brings us closer, but we must stay humble and take it game by game.”
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