Cristiano Ronaldo on the double as Ireland outclassed in Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a brace as Portugal outclassed Ireland in Aveiro, romping to a 3-0 victory ahead of their departure to Germany for Euro 2024.

It proved an awful end to the season for Ireland as they were outplayed by a devastating Portugal unit who will be one of the teams to watch in this summer's tournament.

Joao Felix opened the scoring for the hosts midway through the first half and while they dominated, there was still hope for John O’Shea’s side as they only trailed by a single goal at the break.

But a moment of magic from the Portuguese maestro put the hosts in complete control five minutes into the second half, before his second of the night sealed the victory allowing Roberto Martinez’s side to finish the game in style in what was a perfect send off in front of their home fans.

A carnival atmosphere as the national team stopped off at the coastal town of Aveiro, just south of Porto, and a Mexican wave rang around the arena as the home crowd were in celebratory mode ahead of Euro 2024, where they open their campaign in seven days time against Czech Republic.

And the home side kicked into gear in the seventh minute as they enjoyed an extended period in possession; their slick passing taking them deep into Ireland territory.

Martinez’s men then went the length of the pitch as they played through the high press and while the ball eventually arrived into the box from the left flank, it was well read by Caoimhin Kelleher who gathered and killed the tempo.

Felix with the first shot at goal in the 11th minute as Portugal played through the press, before dispossessing Seamus Coleman high up the pitch. The Barcelona forward opted for precision over power, however, his effort was well blocked by Liam Scales.

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