Josh Cullen on Facing Portugal: Confidence is Key in Do-or-Die Match Without Underdog Mentality
Josh Cullen addressed the media ahead of Ireland’s crucial match against Portugal, scheduled for Thursday. This encounter marks the second meeting between the two teams in just over four weeks. Their previous clash in Lisbon ended in disappointment for Ireland, with a last-minute goal resulting in a 1-0 defeat.
Learning from Past Defeats
The recent match in Lisbon was pivotal for Ireland’s World Cup qualifying campaign. They were close to securing a valuable point before Ruben Neves netted a goal in the 91st minute. The loss left the Irish team feeling disheartened, returning to Dublin without points.
Focus on Confidence
Cullen emphasized the importance of confidence as they prepare for this do-or-die match. He believes that shifting away from an underdog mentality is crucial for success. Instead, Cullen aims to instill a sense of belief within the squad.
Key Points from Cullen’s Statement
- Importance of confidence before the match.
- Need to avoid an underdog mentality.
- Learning from recent experiences against strong opponents.
- Aiming for a positive result in Dublin.
Match Overview
The upcoming match in Dublin is highly anticipated, with tickets already sold out. Cullen and the team understand the stakes involved. A win is essential not only for points but also for restoring morale within the squad.
As Ireland prepares to face Portugal, the focus will remain on building confidence and overcoming previous hurdles. With a positive mindset, Cullen believes they can achieve a favorable result on home turf.
