Portugal vs Ireland: UEFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026 – Match Preview, Team News, and What to Expect
Portugal are in a commanding position in the UEFA qualifiers for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, while the Republic of Ireland are still searching for their first win. As the two teams prepare to face off in Lisbon on Saturday, all eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo and company as they aim to tighten their grip on Group F, while Ireland fight to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Portugal’s Impressive Form in World Cup Qualifiers
Portugal have started their qualifying campaign in stunning fashion. They secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Armenia in their opening match and followed it up with a 3-2 win against Hungary, maintaining a perfect record in Group F. Under head coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal have combined tactical discipline with attacking flair, proving themselves as one of the strongest European sides in the current qualifiers.
Their recent success comes on the heels of a major triumph earlier this year when they lifted the UEFA Nations League title, defeating Spain in a thrilling final. That victory not only boosted their morale but also positioned them as one of the favorites heading into the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ireland’s Struggles to Find Their Rhythm
In contrast, the Republic of Ireland have endured a frustrating start to their campaign. Despite showing spirit, they remain winless in Group F. In their opening match at home against Hungary, Ireland fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw, thanks to Adam Idah’s late equalizer in the 90th minute. However, their second game ended in disappointment — a 2-1 loss to Armenia, where Evan Ferguson’s goal wasn’t enough to rescue a result.
Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has emphasized that the Irish must play an “almost perfect game” to get something against Portugal. “We know the challenge ahead,” Hallgrímsson said. “If we can keep a clean sheet and execute our plan, we can steal a point or maybe even a win.”
Why Portugal and Ireland Joined the Qualifiers Late
Both Portugal and Ireland joined the qualifying phase later than other European teams because of their participation in the 2025 UEFA Nations League. Portugal’s deep run in the tournament delayed their World Cup qualifying fixtures. They went on to win the Nations League after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Spain (5-3) in the final, following a strong semifinal performance against Germany.
Head-to-Head: Portugal vs Ireland Rivalry
Saturday’s match marks the 17th meeting between Portugal and Ireland in international football. Portugal have the upper hand historically, with nine wins, while Ireland have claimed victory four times.
The last meeting between the two sides came in June 2024, when Portugal defeated Ireland 3-0 in a friendly held in Aveiro. João Félix opened the scoring before Cristiano Ronaldo netted twice, showcasing his trademark brilliance.
Their most recent competitive clash was during the 2021 World Cup qualifiers, where the match in Dublin ended 0-0. Portugal won the reverse fixture 3-1, helping them qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, while Ireland missed out.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Endless Motivation
Head coach Roberto Martínez praised Cristiano Ronaldo’s dedication ahead of the Ireland clash. “Normally, when a player wins everything, their hunger fades. But that’s not the case with Cristiano,” Martínez said. “He’s been at the top for 20 years, and yet he still finds motivation every day. He remains a role model for every player in this squad.”
Ronaldo, who has made over 200 international appearances, continues to inspire both on and off the pitch. Martínez emphasized that the team’s current focus is on maintaining consistency: “We’re taking it one step at a time. Our September camp went well, but we need to build on that performance and deliver against Ireland.”
Ireland’s Determined Approach
Despite being underdogs, the Republic of Ireland are determined to make life difficult for Portugal. Coach Heimir Hallgrímsson admitted that his side must produce “an almost perfect performance” to earn a result. “We have a clear game plan,” he added. “Our goal is to stay compact, take our chances, and aim for at least three points in this international window.”
Team News: Portugal
Portugal will miss key players due to injuries. João Neves and João Cancelo are both sidelined with hamstring problems. However, the team still boasts a wealth of attacking talent, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Diogo Costa, and Rafael Leão. Ronaldo is expected to lead the line once again, supported by a strong midfield and creative wingers.
Predicted Portugal Starting XI:
Costa; Dalot, Dias, Inácio, Mendes; Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes; Conceição, Ronaldo, Neto.
Team News: Republic of Ireland
Ireland are facing a lengthy injury list that could affect their lineup. Matt Doherty, Jason Knight, Bosun Lawal, Callum O’Dowda, and Sammie Szmodics are all unavailable. However, striker Troy Parrott returns to the squad after recovering from injury, offering a much-needed boost to Ireland’s attack.
Possible Ireland Starting XI:
Kelleher; O’Brien, O’Shea, Collins; Ogbene; Cullen, Knight, Manning; Taylor, Azaz; Ferguson.
Form Guide
Portugal’s Form: W – W – W – W – W
Portugal have been in unstoppable form, combining solid defense with clinical attacking play.
Ireland’s Form: W – D – D – D – L
Ireland’s form has been inconsistent, with defensive lapses costing them crucial points.
What’s at Stake
For Portugal, a win would strengthen their position at the top of Group F and bring them one step closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Ireland, this fixture represents a chance to turn their campaign around and regain confidence ahead of their next match against Armenia.
Prediction
Given Portugal’s form, attacking depth, and home advantage, they enter this contest as heavy favorites. Ireland will need to stay organized defensively and capitalize on counterattacks if they hope to pull off an upset.
Predicted Score: Portugal 3 – 1 Republic of Ireland