World Cup 2022: Ireland Prepare for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Visit in Dublin

Republic of Ireland vs Portugal

Ireland have nothing to play for but pride as they’ll host Portugal at the Aviva Stadium this Thursday evening. Stephen Kenny’s side is not expected to make it to World Cup 2022 since they only have five points and they’re anticipating the end of their failed qualification campaign.

On the other hand, Portugal have virtually booked their ticket to the big dance alongside Serbia in Group A. Serbia hold a one-point lead with 17 points and the Selecao will be eager to stamp their class with yet another victory here.

This sold-out match in Dublin will feature several Premier League standouts from both sides, so this fixture is guaranteed to churn out World Cup 2022 highlights for the home fans to enjoy.

The SBOTOP pre-match betting odds are favouring Portugal since they are in better form compared to their hosts. But as shown in their previous meeting not too long ago, Ireland can give them a run for their money when given the chance.

Talking Points

Ireland fight for pride

World Cup 2022: Stephen Kenny will find right balance to win their home game against Portugal — Stephen Kenny coaches Republic of Ireland during their World Cup 2022 qualifier against Luxembourg

Ireland would like to cap off their campaign on a high note despite the fact that they won’t make it to Qatar next year.

It took the Boys in Green six attempts to grab their first victory in Group A as they demoralised Azerbaijan with a 3-0 tally last October and they followed that one up with 4-0 score vs. Qatar three days later.

Since their defeat to Portugal last September, Ireland are now unbeaten in the last four and they’re keen on continuing their steady progress under Stephen Kenny – who succeeded Mick McCarthy last year.

There’ll be a couple of notable changes for Ireland’s lineup this Thursday.

Aaron Connolly’s surprising omission from the national team became a salient topic since he has been one of their main threats up front these past few games.

Cardiff City forward James Collins is going to be replaced by Callum O’Dowda while midfielders Jayson Molumby and Alan Browne will contend for spots in the starting XI after serving their suspensions.

Teenage goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is expected to lead their last line of defence alongside John Egan and Matt Doherty and they’ll have their hands full in trying to keep the Portuguese forwards at bay.

Manchester United stars seeking reprieve in Portugal

Things have gone downhill for Manchester United these past few weeks and they’re hoping that the international break will somehow help them break out of their rut.

That is the case for the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Diogo Dalot – and the trio will play a crucial role to Portugal’s pursuit of the top spot in Group A.

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Europa League

The Selecao’s qualifying campaign has gone exactly as planned thus far, and this match will serve as a warmup for their impending showdown against Serbia on Sunday.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be joined up front by Diogo Jota and Bernardo Silva while Joao Cancelo should reprise his starting right-back role given that he’s in superb form.

Rui Patricio will man the sticks while Pepe and Ruben Dias are leading their central defence with Joao Moutinho and Joao Palhinha covering them.

History

This Thursday will mark the sixth-ever meeting between Ireland and Portugal in all international competitions. In their previous five meetings prior to this one, Portugal hold the slight edge with two wins and two draws while Ireland have only won once.

These two sides last met in September where it ended in a 2-1 win for Portugal thanks to Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking performance.

The Manchester United striker became the all-time international scoring leader at the time as he surpassed Ali Daei’s 109 goals with his brace during added time.

An upset was in the cards when John Egan put Ireland on the driver’s seat with his 45th-minute goal. However, Cristiano Ronaldo’s heroics denied the Boys in Green.

Betting Tip

	Republic of Ireland vs Portugal	Portugal Asian Handicap -1.00 @ 1.61
	November 12, 3:45 (GMT+8)

Portugal are the overwhelming favourites in this Thursday’s game according to the World Cup 2022 odds.

The Selecao are priced at 1.36 to win, whereas the Boys in Green are at 6.80 and a draw is at 4.50 in the 1X2 market.

Ireland’s progress under Stephen Kenny especially in these past few months is a huge step in the right direction and they’re certainly determined to improve their performance in their September encounter against Portugal.

However, Portugal’s unbeaten run in the World Cup qualifiers since September 2016 speaks for itself. And for that alone, we are backing Fernando Santos’ side to take home all three points.