Haaland Nets Hat-Trick, Ronaldo Misses Penalty!

Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Portugal 1-0 Ireland

Portugal maintained their winning start in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers following a late 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland.

After a scoreless first half, the hosts were handed a chance to take the lead after being awarded a penalty for Dara O’Shea’s handball. Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up but sent his spot-kick straight into the arms of goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

With a game heading for a draw, Ruben Neves popped up with the winning goal in the 92nd minute after turning home a cross from Trincao.

The win sees Portugal remain top of Group F, while Ireland remain bottom of the standings.

Norway 5-0 Israel

Norway maintained their perfect start in Group I after thrashing Israel 5-0 on Saturday afternoon.

Erling Haaland got off to a slow start after missing a penalty in the sixth minute of the first half.

However, Norway raced into a three-goal lead thanks to own goals from Anan Khalaili and Idan Nachmias, while Haaland also got his name on the score-sheet.

The Manchester City star completed the rout in the second half by adding two more goals to secure his hat-trick.

Spain 2-0 Georgia

Spain made it three straight wins in Group E after defeating Georgia 2-0 at Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero.

The hosts took the lead in the 24th minute courtesy of a close-range strike from Crystal Palace star Yeremy Pino.

Spain had a chance to double their lead from the penalty spot on 29 minutes, but Ferran Torres was unable to convert from 12 yards.

However, La Roja managed to double their lead after the hour mark courtesy of a powerful free-kick from Mikel Oyarzabal.

Estonia 1-3 Italy

Italy cemented second spot in Group I with a 3-1 win over Estonia at the A. Le Coq Arena.

The visitors opened a two-goal lead in the first half thanks to goals from Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui.

Francesco Pio Esposito added a third goal for the Italians in the 74th minute, before Rauno Sappinen bagged a consolation for the visitors four minutes later.

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