Latest: Troy Parrott double gives Republic of Ireland lead against Portugal

Michael Bolton

52nd minute: Portugal's frustration is starting to show as Ronaldo drags a shot wide, no changes from Ireland so far.

The Second half is underway, in what will feel like the longest 45 minutes of some players' careers.

Portugal started quickly, with Vitinha just unable to connect with a corner properly. Portugal has had all the possession, but Ireland have cleared everything that has cone their way so far.

Troy Parrott has put football fans across the country in dreamland at half-time as his two goals have given the Republic of Ireland a 2-0 lead over Portugal at the Aviva Stadium.

Parrott put Ireland ahead in the 17th minute with a well-worked corner converted by the Ireland striker.

The 23-year-old doubled the lead in the 45th minute with his shot, squeezing in the bottom corner to put Heimir Hallgrimsson's side in charge.

It could have been 3-0 had Chiedozie Ogbene's effort not hit the post, but nobody watching at home or in the stadium will complain that Ireland has done what is needed so far.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Dalot, Joao Felix and Joao Neves all had chances for Portugal, but Ireland have held firm and have an advantage to hold on to in the second half.

Earlier this evening, Hungary defeated Armenia 1-0, meaning Ireland must avoid defeat tonight to have any chance of qualification for the play-offs.