Overview
- Ireland host Portugal at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday at 19:45 GMT, with group leaders Portugal qualifying directly for the World Cup with a win.
- Ireland sit third on four points, one behind Hungary, and their path will be shaped by the Armenia v Hungary result in Yerevan before kick-off.
- Hallgrímsson says Ireland will stick to a disciplined game plan and take calculated risks if required, targeting a minimum draw to keep hopes alive.
- Ireland are without striker Evan Ferguson (ankle) and have Ryan Manning and Jayson Molumby suspended, with further injuries trimming options in wide and midfield areas.
- Portugal travel without Pedro Neto and Pedro Gonçalves, while Cristiano Ronaldo remains the focal threat as highlighted by the Ireland manager.