Liam Scales stars in Ireland’s glory night against Portugal

Liam Scales played a major part in Ireland’s famous 2-0 victory over Portugal last night at the Aviva Stadium…

Portugal and Republic of Ireland players stand for the National Anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Republic of Ireland and Portugal at Aviva Stadium on November 13, 2025 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

The defender was crucial in setting up the opener as Ireland shocked Portugal 2–0 in Dublin, leaping above everyone at a corner to direct a perfect header across the goal for Troy Parrott to convert.

Ireland have now put themselves back in the hunt for a potential World Cup play-off place as they prepare to head to Hungary on Sunday night knowing a win guarantees another chance of getting to next summer’s tournament in USA, Canada and Mexico.

Parrot’s header put Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side in front and Celtic’s centre-back can take all the credit for the assist. The AZ Alkmaar striker added a second just before the interval capping off an outstanding first-half for the Irishman.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s sending-off on the hour mark for elbowing Dara O’Shea compiled what was a horrendous night for Portugal.

It was Ronaldo’s first red-card in 226 games for the Portuguese national team. Given that the 40 year-old football icon has been handed his marching orders 13 times at club level in an illustrious career, that is a remarkable stat.

Ex-Celtic players Mikey Johnston and Adam Idah were introduced from the bench to help close out a vital three points for Ireland, while Hoops forward Johnny Kenny – who replaced the injured Evan Ferguson in the Irish squad this week – did not feature.

Troy Parrott of Republic of Ireland celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Republic of Ireland and Portugal at Aviva Stadium on November 13, 2025 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

However, the spotlight was on those who created the key moments, with Scales playing a central role in the opening goal.

The Celtic defender has taken his fair share of criticism over the years but he has been the side’s most consistent performer this season.

Whether that be in Europe or domestically, Scales remains the one shining light for Celtic whether under Brendan Rodgers during the early part of the campaign or the games Martin O’Neill has managed since he stepped in as interim boss two weeks ago.

Conor Spence