Portugal arrive in Dublin knowing a win will confirm their place at the 2026 World Cup, while the Republic of Ireland face a must-perform night in front of their own crowd.
Both nations enter the fixture with pressure of very different kinds as Group F moves toward its decisive final round.
Match Context and Team News
The Republic of Ireland, led by Heimir Hallgrimsson, are still in the qualification picture after their vital home win over Armenia. Their challenge here is complicated by the absence of Evan Ferguson, who has scored most of their goals in this campaign. Without him, Ireland rely on Troy Parrott, Adam Idah, and the newly-called Johnny Kenny to offer presence in the final third.
The hosts are also missing depth in wide areas. Injuries to Sammie Szmodics, Mark Sykes, and Callum O’Dowda reduce their creative supply, while Ryan Manning and Jayson Molumby serve suspensions. Even so, the midfield pairing of Josh Cullen and Will Smallbone remains central to their structure. The back three of Andrew Omobamidele, Nathan Collins, and Dara O’Shea should continue in front of Caoimhin Kelleher.
The visitors, Portugal, travel with qualification within reach. Roberto Martinez must do without Pedro Neto and Pedro Goncalves, yet the squad still carries exceptional depth. Their forward line centres on Cristiano Ronaldo, supported by Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Dias in key areas of the pitch.
Ronaldo arrives in strong domestic form for Al Nassr, contributing regularly in the Saudi Pro League. Fernandes is likely to operate as the creative link behind the front line, and Vitinha should support him from midfield. Bernardo Silva is expected to start on the right, with Rafael Leao providing pace on the left.
How the Game Could Unfold
The Republic of Ireland, with Caoimhin Kelleher and Troy Parrott central to their approach, will trust the home crowd to lift them. They are unbeaten in their last five matches at the Aviva Stadium, and Hallgrimsson’s side have become more compact in recent months. Their wide players, particularly Festy Ebosele and Mikey Johnston, will need to carry threat on transitions.
Ireland’s issue is converting pressure into clear chances without Ferguson. The on-loan Roma forward gives them focal strength that no other striker in the squad can replicate. Parrott and Idah bring mobility, yet neither offers the same hold-up play or penalty-box presence.
The visitors, Portugal, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes offering their usual control, will expect to dominate possession. Martinez’s side have taken 10 points from 12 in qualifying, and their experience in high-pressure matches is considerable. Neves should anchor midfield, and Dias will organise the defensive line as they look to push Ireland deep.
Portugal’s recent draw with Hungary showed small gaps when defending counters, although their overall quality across the pitch makes them favourites. Their combinations around the box, especially when Silva drifts in from the flank, give them consistent routes to goal.
Prediction: Republic of Ireland 0–2 Portugal
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