Last Thursday when I sat down to watch Ireland v Portugal, I did so neither in hope or expectation of Irish victory. 4 points from 4 games including a defeat to Armenia meant that Ireland’s World Cup hopes were hanging by a thread. The thought was, would Ireland still have a mathematical chance of qualifying by the end of the game.
Two Troy Parrot goals and a Ronaldo red card brought joy and optimism going forward. Still, Hungary on Sunday, away and a win is needed, a tough ask to say the least.
Midway through the second half on Sunday with Hungary 2-1 up and seemingly control I decided to take the dog for a walk. We were not going to score two, the World Cup dream is over. Then as I was about to go out, Troy Parrot scored, 2-2, I decided to stay and watch the end.
As the clock ticked down, 5 minutes of injury time had elapsed, it seemed all was lost and then, one last dramatic twist.
What happened was a magical moment that will live long in the memory. One moment of magic, one moment that turned everything on its head, from disappointment to elation.
A big win of your favourite football club or national team can change your week. I had given up on the 2026 World Cup long ago, now I was looking at when the play-off fixtures will be, when will the Final draw be made, which cites are hosting games, where might Ireland be.
Sport has the power to do that, change your mood, change your outlook. This international break has come to a close but March is already too far aaway for the next one. I enjoy club football but international football is different, international football is special. It draws emotions that club football can not..
(eugeneward78) A blog 