sportbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Portugal Vs Ireland Prediction, Odds And Team News

Portugal Vs Ireland Prediction, Odds And Team News

The Republic of Ireland will travel to the Algarve to take on Portugal as World Cup qualifying resumes.

After being dethroned as European champions, Portugal return to action for the first time when they host the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday night. 

The Irish started the group in poor fashion after two opening defeats and now face a daunting trip to Cristiano Ronaldo and co.

On the face of it, the Republic of Ireland could be in for an extremely tricky evening, but there will be little temptation in backing Portugal to win at a short price of 1/5. 

The Republic of Ireland last played Portugal in a 5-1 defeat back in 2014
The Republic of Ireland last played Portugal in a 5-1 defeat back in 2014

Stephen Kenny’s side have only won once in their last 14 matches and that was against a poor Andorra side, leaving the Portuguese as the overwhelming favourites to win this one.

Ahead of the game, our tipster Robert Mann takes a look at some of the best bets from Portugal vs the Republic of Ireland to get your teeth stuck into.

Portugal vs Republic of Ireland betting tips & predictions

Portugal are 1/5 to win, with the Republic of Ireland priced at 16/1 to come away with the victory. A draw is priced at 5/1.

Prediction: 3-0 (5/1)

Half-Time/Full-Time: Draw/Portugal (5/2)

Given the attacking talent in the Portugal squad, expansive football has been demanded of head coach Fernando Santo for some time now.

And considering that the Republic of Ireland haven't won any of their last 13 competitive matches - only scoring five times in that run - we're backing the Portuguese to lead from the first to last whistle on Wednesday night.

Expansive football has been demanded of head coach Fernando Santo for some time now
Expansive football has been demanded of head coach Fernando Santo for some time now

First Goalscorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (6/4)

Barring their 1-0 defeat to Belgium in the European Championships, Portugal have been involved in some high-scoring affairs.

And following Ronaldo’s sensational move to Manchester United confirmed on Deadline Day, we’re backing the 36-year-old to come into the game in his usual goal-scoring mood. 

Win to Nil: Portugal (8/11)

Republic of Ireland last played Portugal in a 5-1 defeat back in 2014 - and we’re backing a similar outcome on Wednesday evening.

While the Portuguese are winless in their last three matches, it has been against very strong opponents - a label that can’t be said for Kenny’s men. 

Portugal will be looking to bounce back after failing to win any of their last three games
Portugal will be looking to bounce back after failing to win any of their last three games

Odds are correct at the time of publication and are, as always, subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. For more information visit: https://www.begambleaware.org.

Portugal team news

Ricardo Pereira's long road back to international football looks set to continue a little while longer following his hamstring injury at the weekend, while Ronaldo will have his sights on a record-breaking 110th international goal.

Still going strong as the ripe age of 38, Pepe will hope to resume his partnership with Ruben Dias at the back, with Bernardo Silva and Diogo Jota providing support to Ronaldo.

Ronaldo will be playing his first game since joining Manchester United this summer
Ronaldo will be playing his first game since joining Manchester United this summer

Republic of Ireland team news

The Republic of Ireland have welcome uncapped defenders Nathan Collins and Andrew Omobamidele to the group for the first time, but will be without experienced midfielders James McCarthy and Robbie Brady.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Darren Randolph has also been left out, meaning that Kenny must choose between international novices Gavin Bazunu, Mark Travers and Caoimhin Kelleher.

Featured Image Credit: PA Images

Topics: Ireland, Portugal, Football World Cup