Qualifiers: CR7 misses penalty, but Portugal snatch late winner | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo was far from having an inspired night this Saturday (11).

The striker missed a penalty, but at least saw Portugal snatch a late 1-0 win over Ireland.

The match at the José Alvalade stadium was decided by a header from Rúben Neves.

With the result, Portugal still has a chance to qualify for the World Cup during this FIFA window.

Spain also came very close to securing their qualification.

The reigning European champions beat Georgia at home 2-0.

Spaniards and Portuguese now have three wins from three matches played in the qualifiers.

Both national teams return to the pitch next Tuesday.

Spain secures its World Cup spot if it beats Bulgaria and Turkey doesn’t overcome Georgia.

Portugal secures its qualification with a win over Hungary, provided that Armenia doesn’t beat Ireland.

Check out all of today’s results from the UEFA World Cup qualifiers below:

Group E

Spain is very close to clinching direct qualification for the World Cup.

Meanwhile, Turkey and Georgia should continue battling for a playoff spot.

The two teams face each other next Tuesday, in a match hosted by the Turkish side, which has a three-point lead over the Georgians.

Group F

Hungary took second place in the group from Armenia with the win in Saturday’s head-to-head.

Portugal extended its lead at the top of the group, leaving Ireland at the bottom.

Group I

Norway maintained a 100% record in the group and is close to securing direct qualification.

Italy has little chance of taking first place in the group and is looking to at least secure second, which grants a playoff spot.

Israel is the closest chaser, three points back with a game in hand.

Group K

Coached by Sylvinho, Albania took an important step in its dream of reaching the World Cup.

The team beat Serbia away from home in a clash that carries tension due to geopolitical issues.

The two teams should fight for second place in the group, with England solid at the top.

At the moment, Albania is four points above Serbia in the table, with one more game played.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

📸 PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA - AFP or licensors