Cristiano Ronaldo scored two late goals to win the World Cup Qualifier tie for Portugal against a stubborn Republic of Ireland.
The Manchester United forward had an early penalty saved by Gavin Bazunu prior to John Egan heading the Republic of Ireland ahead in the first half, unfortunately they remain without any points.
However, Ronaldo’s 110th and 111th international goals were enough for Portugal to complete a dramatic late comeback to see off the resilient Ireland.
His first goal of the night saw him overtake Ali Daei as international football’s record goal scorer.
The legendary forward had endured a frustrating night for 89 minutes, then equalising in the 89th and scoring the winner in the 96th minute, after the five minutes added had passed.
A sloppy piece of Irish defending 10 minutes in presented Portugal with a penalty, but Cristiano had his spot kick saved by 19-year-old goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, who is currently on loan at Portsmouth.
John Egan would give Ireland a shock lead on the stroke of half-time, and Stephen Kenny’s side stood firm for the majority of the second half.
Cristiano would arrive late when it mattered most to snatch a late winner.
In the last minute of the 90 he headed in an equaliser, then went on to win the game with another header deep into stoppage time.
