The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in UEFA intensify as Portugal vs Ireland in a crucial Group F encounter at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Kicking off at 7:45 p.m. BST (2:45 p.m. ET / 11:45 a.m. PT).
This matchday three fixture sees Portugal aiming to maintain their perfect start, while Ireland seeks a vital upset to revive their campaign for the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. With stars like Cristiano Ronaldo in action, this clash promises drama.
Find here Portugal vs Ireland preview, predictions, team news, lineups, or how to watch the October FIFA World Cup qualification Window live. This in-depth guide covers form, stats, and more.
2026 FIFA World Cup Portugal vs Ireland European Qualifiers – Preview, Predictions, Team News, and How to Watch
Table of Contents
Match Overview and Context
This game is part of UEFA’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where 55 teams are divided into 12 groups. Each group plays a round-robin format from March to November 2025, with group winners qualifying directly. Runners-up enter playoffs in March 2026 for four more spots, plus Nations League pathways.
Portugal, ranked fifth globally, is chasing their seventh consecutive World Cup appearance and first title. Under Roberto Martinez, they’ve won the 2025 Nations League, securing a playoff safety net. Ireland, aiming for their first finals since 2002, faces an uphill battle under Heimir Hallgrimsson.
Historically, the Portugal National Football Team has dominated recent meetings, winning three of the last four (D1), including a 3-0 friendly in June 2024. Expect tactical battles at the 50,095-capacity Estádio José Alvalade, home to Sporting CP.
Current Standings in UEFA Group F
As of October 10, 2025 (before matchday three), Group F standings are:
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Portugal | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 2 | +6 | 6 |
| 2 | Armenia | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 5 | -4 | 3 |
| 3 | Hungary | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 5 | -1 | 1 |
| 4 | Republic of Ireland | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | -1 | 1 |
Portugal leads after a 5-0 thrashing of Armenia and a 3-2 win over Hungary. Ireland sits bottom, drawing 2-2 with Hungary and losing 1-2 to Armenia.
Portugal vs Ireland Match Preview
Portugal enters with momentum, winning their last six games across all competitions, including the Nations League title. They’ve scored eight goals in two qualifiers, showcasing attacking prowess. Martinez emphasizes their “dream” of World Cup glory, referencing historical milestones like 1966 and 2016.
Ireland, however, is reeling from a poor start, with Hallgrimsson’s job under scrutiny after the Armenia defeat. They’ve shown resilience in comebacks but lack firepower, scoring in just three of their last five games.
Success away has been rare, with only two wins in eight recent road internationals (D1 L5). Portugal’s home dominance and Ireland’s struggles suggest a tough outing for the visitors.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Portugal Team News
Joao Neves and Joao Cancelo are out with hamstring injuries. Nuno Tavares joins the squad, but Nuno Mendes starts at left-back. Cristiano Ronaldo, with three qualifier goals and four against Ireland historically, leads the attack.
Possible Portugal Starting Lineup (4-3-3): Costa; Dalot, Dias, Inacio, Mendes; Bernardo, Vitinha, Fernandes; Conceicao, Ronaldo, Neto
Republic of Ireland Team News
Injuries sideline Matt Doherty, Jason Knight, Bosun Lawal, Callum O’Dowda, and Sammie Szmodics. Seamus Coleman returns to compete with Chiedozie Ogbene at right wing-back. Troy Parrott is available but will be assessed.
Possible Republic of Ireland Starting Lineup (3-4-3): Kelleher; O’Brien, O’Shea, Collins; Ogbene, Cullen, Knight, Manning; Taylor, Azaz; Ferguson
Portugal vs Ireland Prediction
Portugal’s form and quality should overwhelm Ireland, who have defensive vulnerabilities. With Ronaldo in scoring mood, expect a comfortable home win.
Prediction: Portugal 3-0 Republic of Ireland. Selecao preserves their perfect record.
How to Watch Portugal vs Ireland Live
- Live Scores and Updates: UEFA.com, ESPN, or Sofascore for real-time stats and highlights
- Date and Time: Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 2:45 p.m. ET / 11:45 a.m. PT
- Venue: Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal
- TV and Streaming (UK): Amazon Prime Video (live stream); highlights on Amazon Prime Video Sport X account
- USA: ESPN+ or FOX Sports (check local listings for UEFA qualifiers)
Global Options: FIFA+ (select regions), or local broadcasters like RTE (Ireland) and RTP (Portugal), UEFA
