Ireland’s World Cup Bid Still Alive After Narrow Victory Over Armenia

After the disaster of September’s international window, picking up at least three points against Portugal or Armenia was imperative for the Republic of Ireland in their October fixtures as they continued their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America.

A spirited defensive display saw them sit deep for most of the game and nearly earn a valuable point against Portugal in Lisbon, only for Rúben Neves to head in a late winner. That result put added pressure on the team to deliver against Armenia and claim their first victory to keep their faint qualification hopes alive. In the end, they managed it, winning 1-0 against a side reduced to ten men after their captain was sent off in the 52nd minute.

That victory means Ireland will head into their final two fixtures against Portugal and Hungary in November, probably needing at least four points to secure a playoff spot.

Ireland Fall to Late Defeat in Lisbon After Dogged Defensive Display

As mentioned, a late Rúben Neves goal gave Portugal a 1-0 win over a determined Irish side in Lisbon. Roberto Martínez’s Portugal struggled to create chances for much of the game as Ireland sat deep in a 5-4-1 formation, parking themselves on the edge of their own box. The plan nearly worked, frustrating a Portugal side packed with star names, before some late substitutions by the Irish coaching staff led to a defensive reshuffle that contributed to the 91st-minute winner.

It was a heartbreaking end for Ireland, who left Lisbon knowing they had to beat Armenia in Dublin to remain in contention. The return of Seamus Coleman highlighted some puzzling management decisions. He was left out completely in September, but started here despite limited club football. Jayson Molumby and Festy Ebosele were also recalled, as the manager opted for a back five for the first time in the group.

Ireland Earn 1-0 Win Despite Another Disjointed Performance

Heimir Hallgrímsson’s men went into the game against Armenia knowing a win was essential. Fans expected a performance to match the occasion, but instead witnessed another nervy, lacklustre display devoid of attacking structure. Once again, the coach set up in a 3-4-2-1 system, which wasn’t inherently the issue. The problem lay in how it was implemented for a home match against a team ranked 103rd in the world.

Ireland conceded possession and territory for much of the first half. Even after Armenian captain Barseghyan’s red card in the 52nd minute, the hosts struggled to impose themselves. It took until the 70th minute for Evan Ferguson to head home the winner. His third goal of the campaign and one of the few bright spots in an otherwise frustrating qualifying run.

Bizarre Management Calls Continue to Raise Questions

Despite finally securing a win, the confusing and indecisive choices from the sidelines remain a major concern. Throughout this campaign, there has been a worrying lack of structure and consistency in Ireland’s approach. Substitutions have often been questionable, such as removing Seamus Coleman after 86 minutes against Portugal, which backfired, and repeating similar changes against Armenia without a clear tactical benefit.

With two vital games ahead in November, the lack of tactical clarity and confidence from the coaching staff must be addressed if Ireland are to produce the performances needed against Portugal and Hungary.

What’s Next?

Next up are the final two World Cup qualifiers: Portugal at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday, November 13th (19:45), followed by Hungary away on Sunday, November 16th (14:00 GMT). Given the team’s performances so far, expectations are understandably low but Irish fans will always believe.

Stay tuned for more weekly sports content.