Two wins for Portugal in October may be enough to see them book their place at the 2026 World Cup, and they’re first up against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday night.
Roberto Martinez’s side have flattered to deceive at major tournaments, but they remain one of the world’s most talented nations and will be regarded among the favourites to go all the way in North America next summer.
The UEFA Nations League champions started their qualifying campaign with victories over Armenia and Hungary in September, with a late João Cancelo strike against the latter ensuring they maintained their 100% record.
Ireland have been dealt a tough hand and are already unlikely to qualify for their first World Cup since 2002 after they were beaten 2–1 by Armenia in their last outing. FIFA’s 61st-ranked nation haven’t beaten Portugal since 2005, and it’d be an almighty upset if they were able escape Lisbon with a result on Saturday night.
Here’s guide to this World Cup qualifier.






