World Cup

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World Cup | Qualifiers

Oct 16, 2012 at 8.45pm UK

Portugal
1-1
N. Ireland Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland midfielder Niall McGinn hails "dream" goal against Portugal

By Liam Power, Reporter

Published: October 17 2012 | 02:59

Last updated: October 17 2012 | 13:59

Niall McGinn declares that scoring his first goal for Northern Ireland away to Portugal felt like "a dream come true" and thinks his side were unlucky not to come away with a shock victory.

Niall McGinn has admitted that scoring his first international goal for Northern Ireland against Portugal was a dream scenario.

Northern Ireland came agonisingly close to a shock victory in Porto on Tuesday after taking the lead through McGinn in the first half.

The Aberdeen midfielder showed superb composure to beat Rui Patricio with a lofted finish for his maiden strike at international level.

Portugal dominated the second half and found an equaliser with 10 minutes to play through Helder Postiga.

"It was a dream come true to score. I think the boys were first class for 90 minutes and we a are a little bit disappointed to give away the late goal," the 25-year-old told Sky Sports News.

"We have to credit ourselves for the performance tonight and from a personal point of view I'm over the moon to get my first international goal."

Martin O'Neill's men have collected two points from their opening three World Cup qualifiers but can look forward to four consecutive home matches, starting against Azerbaijan in November.