Parrott powers Ireland to vital win over Portugal as Ronaldo sees red

A first half brace from Troy Parrott powered Ireland to a vital victory over Portugal to keep their dreams of World Cup qualification alive. Cristiano Ronaldo received his first red card at international level for a petulant elbow on Dara O’Shea in the second half as Ireland defended heroically to secure the three points. Portugal knew a win would secure their place at the finals but they must now seal their place on Sunday against Armenia.

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City fail to impress in goalless draw with Inter

Manchester City’s Champions League campaign opened in frustrating fashion as they were held to a draw by impressive Inter Milan at Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola’s side were never at their most fluent, not helped by an injury to Kevin de Bruyne that forced him off at half-time, but their Italian opponents were well worth their draw.

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Late own-goal sees France edge out Belgium

A late own goal by Jan Vertonghen sent France into the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 at Belgium’s expense. A game that had lacked quality and excitement for large periods looked destined for extra time, but a shot by substitute Randal Kolo Muani deflected off Vertonghen with five minutes remaining to seal the victory at Dusseldorf Arena. France had missed several chances before that as once again their lack of a cutting edge let them down.

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Torres scores as much changed Spain sink Albania

Spain maintained their 100% record at Euro 2024 as they defeated and eliminated Albania – a result that meant England, France and the Netherlands all secured last-16 places. Ferran Torres gave a much-changed Spain side the lead in the 13th minute, finishing low first time from Dani Olmo’s pass with the ball bouncing in off the post.

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Stanciu scores screamer as Romania dominate Ukraine

Romania recorded their first victory at a European Championship in 24 years with a stunning win over Ukraine in Group E. Captain Nicolae Stanciu gave Romania a surprise lead in the 29th minute, finding the top corner with a brilliant strike from 20 yards out. Razvan Marin then doubled the Tricolours’ lead after 53 minutes with Denis Dragus rounding out the scoring.

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