RUBEN Neves’ stoppage-time header broke the Republic of Ireland’s hearts and handed Portugal a dramatic World Cup qualifying win in Lisbon after Cristiano Ronaldo was denied from the spot.

Neves rose brilliantly to steer Francisco Trincao’s cross home and spare Ronaldo’s blushes after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s failure to convert from 12 yards.

Ronaldo was denied by Caoimhin Kelleher 15 minutes from time after Dara O’Shea was adjudged to have used his arm to block Trincao’s effort.

After Kelleher’s intervention, it looked as though the Republic of Ireland would take a hard-fought point back to Dublin, only for Neves to condemn them to another defeat after last month’s shock reverse to Armenia in Yerevan.

Hungary’s 2-0 win over Armenia in Group F’s other fixture on Saturday means they sit second, five points behind leaders Portugal after three rounds of games. The Republic of Ireland are bottom, two points adrift of Armenia before a crucial meeting in Dublin on Tuesday. (BBC Sport)