The final FIFA international window of 2025 has arrived, bringing with it the last matchday of the UEFA Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Among the teams still fighting for a direct ticket is Portugal, led by their captain and all-time great, Cristiano Ronaldo, as they take on Ireland in a decisive matchup.
The Portuguese, under Roberto Martinez, are part of Group F in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers alongside Ireland, Hungary, and Armenia. After four of six matches, Portugal sit at the top of the standings with 10 points, recording three wins and one draw.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates visit Ireland this Thursday in a clash that could seal their place in the 2026 World Cup. Their qualification hopes were delayed to this November window after a 1-1 draw against Hungary in the previous round of fixtures in October.
What happens if Portugal defeat Ireland today?
Heading into the penultimate matchday, Portugal are among the few teams that fully control their own destiny. A win tonight would guarantee Portugal a direct ticket to next summer’s World Cup, making them one of the 48 nations to compete on soccer’s biggest stage. Follow our liveblog of the Ireland vs Portugal game with minute-by-minute updates!
With only two games remaining — against Ireland and Armenia — a victory in Dublin would be enough for Portugal to secure qualification without depending on other results.
What happens if Portugal and Ireland tie?
If Portugal and Ireland tie today, Cristiano Ronaldo and company would still have to wait to celebrate a direct 2026 World Cup berth because Hungary defeated Armenia earlier on Thursday. A draw would leave Portugal (currently with 10 points) three points clear of Hungary (8), and even though their goal differential (+7 compared to Hungary’s +2) could still be enough in a potential tiebreaker, Ronaldo’s team would have to avoid defeat to Armenia to secure its berth without depending on Hungary’s next result.
What happens if Portugal lose vs Ireland?
A defeat in Dublin against Ireland would push Portugal’s qualification hopes to the final matchday. A loss today would leave Ronaldo’s team with 10 points, just two above Hungary. Portugal would still be in control of their own destiny, but it’s safe to say they don’t want any more drama. On Sunday, Portugal take on Armenia at 9 AM (ET), with Hungary hosting Ireland at the same time.