Rúben Neves scores emotional winner for Portugal | OneFootball

An emotional goal for Rúben Neves clinched victory for Portugal at Estádio José Alvalade..

Heimir Hallgrímsson, head coach of the Republic of Ireland, emphasized on the eve of the match the desire to 'frustrate' the Portuguese.

The starting lineup confirmed this intention, with four natural full-backs accompanying the usual three central defenders, making it clear the plan to stop Cristinao Ronaldo and his team.

That's exactly what happened on the field. The first half allowed, however, a couple of clear chances. In one of them Manchester City's Bernardo Silva missed an open goal after a shot from Ronaldo hit the post; in another, defender Gonçalo Inácio almost scored following a set piece.

In the second half, the frustration continued for Portugal when Caoimhin Kelleher saved a penalty from Cristiano Ronaldo, in what seemed to be the key moment of a then goalless game.

However, in the first minute of stoppage time, Francisco Trincão placed a good ball in the area, to which Rúben Neves converted with a towering header.

An important goal and of tremendous significance In Portugal's first home game since the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, here was his best friend and the new number 21 of the national team finally scoring his first goal for his country. You could hardly could ask for a better tribute.