Portugal vs Ireland: Expect Goals in Lisbon Showdown

Portugal vs Republic of Ireland Preview

Portugal are flying high again after another Nations League title and a couple of big World Cup qualifying wins. Now they’re back in Lisbon to take on the Republic of Ireland — and if recent results are anything to go by, we could be in for another goal-packed thriller.

Form Guide

Portugal’s attack has been on fire lately, smashing in 15 goals across their last five games (in 90 minutes). They’ve put two or more past tough teams like Spain, Germany, and Denmark. The downside? Their defence hasn’t been as sharp — just one clean sheet in eight matches.

Ireland, on the other hand, can’t seem to buy a win right now. Heimir Hallgrimsson’s men lost 2-1 to Armenia last time out, stretching their winless run to four games. They also went down 2-0 to Hungary earlier and haven’t beaten Portugal since forever — their last meeting ended in a 3-0 loss back in June 2024.

Still, credit where it’s due — Ireland have started finding the net more often, scoring in five of their last six matches. That might give them a bit of confidence heading into this tough away test.

Head-to-Head

Portugal have totally dominated this fixture. The Selecao ran out 3-0 winners in their last meeting, and Ireland haven’t managed to upset them since the early 2000s. The gulf in quality remains pretty clear, especially with Portugal’s current attacking form.

Team News

Portugal are expected to stick with their usual attacking setup. Cristiano Ronaldo remains the main man up front, supported by the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão. Bernardo Silva could return to the XI after being rested last time.

Ireland might rotate a little after a rough few games. Evan Ferguson is likely to lead the line, with Chiedozie Ogbene and Jason Knight offering pace on the flanks. The defence, though, will have to be a lot tighter than it’s been recently.

Players to Watch

• Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): Still Portugal’s talisman, and he loves scoring in front of the home crowd.

• Bruno Fernandes (Portugal): In great form and often the creative spark.

• Evan Ferguson (Ireland): Young but dangerous — if Ireland score, it could easily be him.

Prediction

Portugal’s attack is just too strong right now. Ireland might nick a goal — given how shaky Portugal’s defence has been — but it’s hard to see them keeping up at the other end. Another lively game seems on the cards.

Predicted score: Portugal 3-2 Republic of Ireland

Betting Tips

• Both Teams to Score – Yes

• Over 2.5 Goals

• Correct Score: 3-2 Portugal (worth a punt at big odds!)

Wrap-Up

Expect fireworks in Lisbon. Portugal should take the win, but don’t rule out Ireland grabbing one themselves. Goals look guaranteed, and if recent games are anything to go by, we might just see another 3-2 classic.