Get ready for an exciting football showdown as the Republic of Ireland takes on Portugal in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifying match!
The Battle for Budapest
This Thursday, November 13th, at 7.45 pm, the Aviva Stadium will be buzzing with anticipation. With two matches left in the group stage, the Boys in Green need to pull off some major upsets to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Portugal, on the verge of automatic qualification, leaves Ireland and two other teams battling it out for the playoff spot. It’s a tight race, and every point matters.
The Road to Budapest
Hungary’s match against Armenia at 5 pm will significantly impact Ireland’s hopes. We analyzed the permutations following our win over Armenia, and here’s what we found:
- Ireland needs to draw with Portugal, and Hungary must fail to beat Armenia. Then, a win in Budapest would secure second place.
- Alternatively, if Ireland beats Portugal and Hungary draws with Armenia, a draw in Budapest would be enough.
- Or, simply beat Portugal and win in Budapest, and the job is done!
So, there’s still a glimmer of hope, and by 7 pm, we’ll have a clearer picture of Ireland’s fate.
The Home Advantage
If Hungary wins, the atmosphere in Dublin might be a bit deflated, but a more favorable result will have the home crowd roaring. With a sell-out crowd, the decibels will rise, and the players will feed off that energy.
Heimir’s Pragmatic Approach
Heimir Hallgrimsson, Ireland’s manager, believes that even if a win is necessary, they can’t go all-out against Portugal. History suggests a more cautious, calculated approach is best.
In the previous encounter in Lisbon, Ireland almost grabbed a point but conceded late to Ruben Neves. Hallgrimsson plans to stick to a certain style, saying, “We can’t take on Portugal head-on; it’s not a basketball match. We’ll take risks when needed, but only calculated ones.”
Injury Woes for Ireland
Adding to the challenge, Ireland is dealing with several key absentees, particularly at left-back. Robbie Brady and Ryan Manning, the first-choice options, are both out, with Manning suspended for the Portugal match. Matt Doherty and Callum O’Dowda are also injured.
The call-up of Kevin O’Toole from New York City was a surprise, and with limited options, either Liam Scales or Seamus Coleman will likely fill in. Coleman’s recent impressive performances might give him the nod, but it’s a tough ask given his lack of regular club football.
Up front, Evan Ferguson is out, leaving Troy Parrott and Adam Idah to battle for the number nine jersey. Johnny Kenny, a late call-up, could make his debut, especially if Sunday’s match becomes less crucial.
Portugal: A Familiar Foe
Ireland has always given Portugal a run for their money, even in tough circumstances. Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, two world-class players, have broken Irish hearts, but Fernandes won’t be present due to a ban.
Portugal’s squad is packed with talent from top leagues, especially in England. Ronaldo’s brace in 2021 led to a late victory, but a 0-0 draw in Dublin showed Ireland’s resilience.
Ruben Neves’ late header earlier this year means Ireland has only taken one point from nine, but there are positives to build on.
A Momentous Occasion for Heimir?
This match could be Heimir Hallgrimsson’s last home encounter as Ireland’s manager, as it’s the final international window of his contract. We’re hoping for a moment akin to Jason McAteer’s heroics against the Netherlands or Shane Long’s strike versus Germany.
It’s a tall order, but Ireland aims to defy expectations and head to Hungary with a shot at the playoffs.
Catch all the action on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player from 7 pm. Follow the live blog on the RTÉ News App and rte.ie/sport, and listen to live commentary on RTÉ Radio 1.
Will Ireland pull off the upset? Join the discussion and share your predictions in the comments!