Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva praised the Republic of Ireland's "tough group of lads" as Roberto Martinez’ side needed some late intervention to earn a 1-0 win in Lisbon.
For 90 minutes it looked like Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side were going to earn a morale-boosting point to counter their struggles in the loss in Armenia last time out, but Ruben Neves had other ideas as he headed home the winner just as seven minutes of additional time kicked into action.
"Tough game, tough game. Ireland made it really difficult for us," Silva told RTÉ Sport.
"They’re a big team, a tough group of lads. We’re happy with the result but not very happy with the performance; I don’t think we played really well.
"Fair play to Ireland, I think they made it really tough for us tonight."
The hosts had a glorious chance to take the lead midway through the second half when Dara O’Shea was pinged for handball – even though replays appeared to show the shot hitting his chest – but Caoimhín Kelleher made a brilliant stop with his feet to deny Cristiano Ronaldo.
Silva said he hadn’t watched the incident that led to the penalty back, but admitted that fortune may have been on their side with the decision – even if they were unable to take advantage.
"I haven’t watched it so I don’t know, maybe it’s quite soft I don't know. I would have to watch it again.
"I know that the defender from Ireland was saying 'yeah, it hit my chest, it hit my chest’ so I would have to watch it.
"He’s (Kelleher) fantastic keeper, he was really good today, luckily for us we scored at the end but he was quite good today."
It was an emotional night for Portugal as they played their first home international since the death of their player Diogo Jota who was killed in a car crash along with his brother André Silva in July.
In the 21st minute, fans all around the Estadio Jose Alvalade applauded in tribute to the Liverpool striker who wore number 21 on his back.
"In the first camp when we went away twice, it was definitely very emotional for us to get together again after Diogo passed away.
"After all, our feeling is that he is still with us is in every moment, every breakfast, lunch dinner, every time we play cards or play pool together.
"We’re here playing a game so he will be with us."
