Portugal vs Ireland Preview: Lineups an Where to Watch

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Marcelo Cartaxo | Last updated Oct 11, 2025 10:43 AM ET

Portugal and the Republic of Ireland face off in a World Cup qualifier at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon on Saturday, October 11, with kickoff scheduled for 2:45 p.m. ET.

The home side is looking to maintain their perfect start to the qualification campaign, while Ireland are desperate for points to keep their hopes alive in the group.

Roberto Martínez’s Portugal arrive full of confidence, led once again by captain Cristiano Ronaldo and supported by key players like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Rúben Dias. Despite some absences, the team’s depth continues to be one of its strongest assets.

João Cancelo and João Neves are both out with hamstring injuries, while Nuno Mendes is expected to start at left-back.

On the right, Diogo Dalot should get the nod over Nelson Semedo. With Vitinha and Palhinha in midfield, Portugal are expected to control possession and create multiple chances through the flanks.

The Republic of Ireland, on the other hand, come into this match with several key injuries. Matt Doherty, Jason Knight, Callum O’Dowda, and Sammie Szmodics are all unavailable, leaving interim boss John O’Shea with limited options.

However, veteran Seamus Coleman is back in the squad and could start at right wing-back, while Troy Parrott has recovered in time to provide support to Evan Ferguson in attack. Ireland’s biggest concern remains their defense, which has struggled in recent away fixtures, conceding goals through set pieces and lapses in marking.

Portugal and Ireland last met in qualifying back in 2021, when Ronaldo scored twice in the final minutes to seal a 2–1 comeback win in Faro.

Expected Starting Lineups

Portugal

Goalkeeper: D. Costa
Defenders: D. Dalot, R. Dias, Inácio, N. Mendes
Midfielders: J. Palhinha, B. Fernandes, Vitinha
Wingers: P. Neto, B. Silva
Forward: C. Ronaldo

Republic of Ireland

Goalkeeper: C. Kelleher
Defenders: J. O´Brien, N. Collins, D. O'Shea
Wing-backs: C. Ogbene, R. Manning
Midfielders: J. Cullun, W. Smallbone, J. Taylor
Forward: E. Ferguson

Where to Watch Portugal vs Ireland

Fans in Ireland can watch the game live on RTÉ 2 or stream it via RTÉ Player, while UK viewers can access it through Amazon Prime Video (PPV).

In the United States, the match will be available on FuboTV, with DAZN broadcasting in Canada.

Sky Sports Mexico will cover the game in Mexico, and Amazon Prime PPV will stream it in several international regions.

Predictions for Portugal vs Ireland

Portugal are heavy favorites heading into this match. With Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva pulling the strings, their attack should have no trouble breaking through Ireland’s defense. Still, Ireland’s discipline and physicality could keep things tighter than expected.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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