Overview

• The Ireland manager said his side needs an almost perfect performance to take anything in Lisbon, warning they will likely defend for long spells against FIFA’s fifth-ranked team.
• Liam Scales has withdrawn for personal reasons and QPR’s Jimmy Dunne has been called up, with Seamus Coleman and John Egan also back in the squad.
• Evan Ferguson says he is fit to start after an ankle issue, while Troy Parrott is available following a recent knee problem.
• Hallgrimsson has paused talks on a contract extension, with his deal tied to the current campaign after a draw with Hungary and a defeat in Armenia dented progress.
• Ireland were minutes from victory in Portugal in 2021 before two late Cristiano Ronaldo headers turned the game, a precedent shaping preparations for Saturday’s qualifier.