Ex-Liverpool Legend Crushes Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal Glory Claims

Cristiano Ronaldo had the chance to secure victory for Portugal against Ireland, but the legendary five-time Ballon d'Or recipient watched his penalty attempt get stopped by ex-Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

Portugal experienced a challenging 70 minutes at the Estádio José Alvalade on Saturday night. While controlling possession and creating more than 20 scoring opportunities, the reigning 2025 UEFA Nations League titleholders failed to find the net against Ireland.

The home side believed they had achieved their breakthrough in the 75th minute when Ronaldo approached the penalty spot following Dara O'Shea's handball violation in the penalty area. However, the Portuguese skipper was thwarted by Kelleher, maintaining the goalless stalemate.

Ronaldo directed his penalty down the center, but Kelleher's right leg deflected the shot away from goal as the Irish goalkeeper dropped to the ground.

Kelleher, who transferred from Liverpool to Brentford during the summer window, was mobbed by his colleagues as he celebrated what appeared to be a crucial save for Ireland. The 26-year-old's recent three penalty stops have now been against Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Kylian Mbappé.

Ronaldo, on the other hand, buried his face in his hands after the missed opportunity. The strike would have marked his 142nd goal for Portugal's national squad and his ninth across club and international competitions in 2025–26.

Rúben Neves Saves the Day for Portugal

Following Ronaldo's penalty failure, Portugal appeared headed for a draw with Ireland. However, Rúben Neves delivered the winning moment for Roberto Martínez's squad.

Francisco Trincão delivered a threatening cross into the penalty area that Neves converted with a header in the 91st minute. The decisive goal marked the 28-year-old's maiden international strike, and he honored the memory of late Diogo Jota by displaying a commemorative tattoo of the former Liverpool player, who tragically died with his brother André Silva in a car crash in July.

Portugal managed to hold on through additional time and claimed all three points through solid defensive work and Neves's dramatic late intervention.

Ronaldo will have an opportunity for redemption on Tuesday, Oct. 14, when Portugal welcome Hungary for their second 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier during the October international break.