Parrott's solo stunner and penalty earn Ireland a 2-2 draw with Austria
October 2, 2026 09:21
WHAT HAPPENED
Parrott was played in by Adam Idah about 20 yards from goal, hesitated briefly for support and then went alone. He nutmegged Philipp Lienhart, sidestepped David Affengruber and slotted the ball through goalkeeper Florian Wiegele's legs. He then converted a penalty on the stroke of half-time to take his international tally to 14 in 40 caps.
The visitors pulled a goal back shortly before Parrott was substituted on 75 minutes, and then levelled again soon after to deny Ireland a win.
KEY CONTEXT
Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson praised the goal, saying it would be replayed “again and again for many years to come” and calling Parrott “magical for Irish football to have him in a green shirt.” Hallgrimsson explained the forward was taken off partly to protect him ahead of Ireland's next fixture, saying he was getting tired and the team needed him in three days.
Parrott has scored nine times in his last six competitive international matches and, at club level, has two goals and an assist for Real Betis this season in limited minutes. The striker's last-gasp winner that completed a hat-trick against Hungary and secured a World Cup play-off in November last year was also highlighted as a memorable strike.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Ireland travel to Serbia to face Israel in Backa Topola in three days. A win there would move the Republic of Ireland onto seven points in their group and, as reported, would improve their chances of finishing second and securing a place in pot two for the Euro 2028 qualifying draw ahead of November's final games away to Austria and at home to Kosovo.