A Troy Parrott-inspired Ireland produced one of their greatest modern-day results, beating Portugal 2–0 at a raucous Aviva Stadium and setting up a decisive final-day showdown with Hungary.

Parrott struck twice in the first half-first reacting sharply to Liam Scales' cushioned header, then racing onto Dara O'Shea's long pass before cutting inside to beat Diogo Costa at his near post. Ireland's disciplined defensive performance frustrated Portugal throughout, with Caoimhín Kelleher making key stops from Joao Félix.

The night turned chaotic on 59 minutes when Ronaldo, already increasingly agitated, was sent off for elbowing O'Shea off the ball. Referee Glenn Nyberg upgraded an initial yellow to red after a VAR review, prompting heated words between Ronaldo and Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson as the Portugal captain left the pitch.

The dismissal means Ronaldo will miss Sunday's qualifier against Armenia - and could face a three-match ban under FIFA regulations, potentially ruling him out of Portugal's opening two World Cup group games should they qualify as group winners.

Portugal must now beat Armenia to secure qualification, while Ireland head to Budapest knowing victory over Hungary would clinch second place in Group F.

France cruise into the finals

France became the latest European nation to book their place at the 2026 World Cup, easing to a 4–0 win over Ukraine at the Parc des Princes.

Kylian Mbappe delivered a captain's performance with a clinical brace, Michael Olise added a third after coming off the bench, and Hugo Ekitike wrapped up the scoring late on.

Unbeaten in qualifying since 2019, Didier Deschamps' side top Group D with an unassailable lead and will enter December's draw as one of the top seeds.

Norway hit Four as Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth run riot

Norway moved to the brink of their first World Cup appearance since 1998 with a 4–1 home victory over Estonia. After a tense and goalless first half, Alexander Sorloth broke the deadlock with two quick-fire headers shortly after the restart.

Erling Haaland then powered in two more-both trademark, ruthless finishes - to put Norway out of sight before Robi Saarma netted a consolation for Estonia.

Italy see off Moldova

Italy's late 2–0 win in Moldova delayed Norway's official qualification, but the scenario remains near impossible for the Azzurri: they must beat Norway on Sunday by nine goals to overturn a 17-goal inferior difference and steal automatic qualification.

Innocent Maela backs Orlando Pirates' readiness to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the title