Irish revival ends Portugal dreams

Portugal's hopes of reaching the play-offs ended in bitter disappointment after they lost a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with the Republic of Ireland.

Fernandes goal
Needing a win to have a chance of advancing from Group 3 as one of the four best runners-up, Rui Caçador's side looked on course at the break after goals from Ricardo Vaz Té and Manuel Fernandes put them in a commanding position in Madeira. Although Portugal got off to a slow start they soon hit their stride and took the lead after 38 minutes when Vierinha's precise pass picked out Bolton Wanderers FC forward Vaz Té who beat Shane Redmond in the Ireland goal. Portugal added to their advantage in stoppage time at the end of the first half when Valencia CF midfielder Manuel Fernandes fired in after more good work by Vaz Té.

Garvan double
The Republic of Ireland had picked up just four points in their preceding seven matches but they bounced back after half-time to stun their hosts with a pair of goals from Owen Garvan. Sean Scannel set up Garvan for the first on 50 minutes, the Ipswich Town FC player making no mistake from close range, before Garvan drew the visitors level with a left-foot shot on 65 minutes. Substitute Hélder Barbosa came close to winning the game for Portugal when he hit the post with eleven minutes remaining, but there was to be no way back.