The Boys in Green welcome European giants Portugal to the Aviva in what is a crucial game for both teams in the World Cup qualifiers.
Last Time Out:
Ireland got their first win of the qualification campaign last month as they defeated Armenia 1 – 0 in Dublin with a goal from Evan Ferguson.
Portugal ended up sharing the points with Hungary in Lisbon in a 2 – 2 draw on the same night. Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai secured the crucial point for the Hungarians in the 91st minute.
Previous Meetings:
11.10.2025 – Portugal 1 – 0 Ireland. (2026 WCQ)
11.06.2024 – Portugal 3 – 0 Ireland. (Friendly)
11.11.2021 – Ireland 0 – 0 Portugal. (2022 WCQ)
Key Players:
Ireland: Having played every minute of Ireland’s qualification campaign so far, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is one of, if not Ireland’s, most key player.
Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo is still the key man for the Portuguese with five goals in the qualifiers so far.
Prediction:
Ireland 1 – 1 Portugal.
I think it will be a close game with both teams, especially as the Armenia vs Hungary ( who play at 5 pm, just before Ireland vs Portugal at 7:45 pm ) result will have an impact on Ireland vs Portugal.
Although it may feel like all hope is lost, there is still a chance that Ireland can finish in second place and secure a playoff spot. Depending on the Armenia vs Hungary result beforehand, a draw or a win for Ireland could bring the group to the final day, when Ireland travels to Budapest to face Hungary, in which 2nd place and a playoff spot could be up for grabs.
Important Information: Player.
Kick Off: Thursday 13th Novem
Where to watch: RTE 2 / RTEber, 19:45.
Match Odds: Ireland 8/1, Draw 4/1, Portugal 3/10.