Ireland vs Portugal prediction, H2H and probable lineups – 13 November 2025
One of the marquee clashes of the ninth round in the European qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set for Thursday at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, where the Republic of Ireland will host Portugal. We've got a bet lined up for this match with excellent chances of success.
Match preview
Ireland are still battling Hungary for second place in their qualifying group. Right now, the Irish sit third with four points, while Hungary have five. However, it's important to note that Hungary have already played both of their matches against Portugal. This means that if Ireland lose to Portugal and Hungary defeat Armenia, the Irish will be out of contention for qualification in the final round, making that match a mere formality.
Republic of Ireland manager, Icelandic coach Heimir Hallgrímsson, is facing serious personnel issues. Star striker Evan Ferguson, who plays for Italian side Roma, will miss the match. Southampton defender Ryan Manning and West Bromwich Albion midfielder Jayson Molumby are also suspended due to yellow card accumulation. These absences could seriously complicate matters for the coaching staff.
Portugal, on the other hand, can secure their ticket to the 2026 World Cup in this very match—Roberto Martínez's squad only need to avoid defeat. In the previous round, Portugal let a win slip away against Hungary, conceding in the dying minutes, but this hasn't jeopardized their qualification prospects, which are virtually sealed.
Nevertheless, Portugal also have their share of absentees for this encounter. Defenders João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, and Nuno Tavares are all sidelined through injury, while Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes misses out due to suspension. Manchester City's Matheus Nunes is expected to slot in at left-back, making his first start in this qualifying campaign.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Four of Ireland's last six matches have seen fewer than three goals scored.
- Portugal are unbeaten in their last seven matches.
- Both teams have scored in five of Portugal's last seven outings.
- The two teams have met three times: Portugal have won twice, with one game ending in a draw.
- Their most recent encounter finished with a narrow 1-0 win for Portugal.
Probable lineups
- Ireland: Kelleher – O'Brien, Collins, O'Shea – Coleman, Smallbone, McAteer, Taylor – Ebosele, Azaz, Ogbene
- Portugal: Costa – Semedo, Dias, Veiga, Nunes – Neves, Palhinha, Vitinha – Silva, Félix, Ronaldo
Prediction
I'm convinced that in this match, only one team will find the back of the net. Portugal will completely dominate proceedings and get the result they need, while Ireland will struggle to create chances, especially without their main striker Ferguson. My prediction: both teams to score – no.
