Republic of Ireland vs Portugal: Heimir Hallgrimsson Asserts It Won’t Be a High-Scoring Game
In a tense buildup to the World Cup qualifying match, Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson shared his insights on the upcoming game against Portugal. The match, set to take place in Dublin, is anticipated to require a strategic approach rather than a high-energy offensive battle.
Heimir Hallgrimsson’s Strategy Against Portugal
Hallgrimsson firmly stated that the game will “not be a basketball match.” This remark underscores his preference for a measured game plan. He emphasized that the team would not surrender to excessive aggression, regardless of their need for points.
Past Performance
During the previous encounter in Lisbon, the Republic of Ireland managed to contain Portugal effectively. A late winner from Ruben Neves sealed a 1-0 victory for the Portuguese team. The Republic of Ireland subsequently defeated Armenia, securing their position in third place in Group F. They trail second-placed Hungary by just one point.
Expected Game Plan
Hallgrimsson reiterated the necessity of maintaining a specific style of play. Whether seeking a win or a draw, he believes the team must remain disciplined. “We can’t go all-in against a team like Portugal. We will take calculated risks if a goal is needed later on,” he explained.
Preparation and Psyche
The manager pointed out that players must be psychologically prepared for the encounter. He does not anticipate significant changes in Portugal’s tactics, despite their previous struggle to create scoring opportunities in their last meeting. The Republic of Ireland’s solid defense played a crucial role in limiting Portugal’s chances, including a successful penalty save by Caoimhin Kelleher against Cristiano Ronaldo.
Controlled Defense
While acknowledging the strengths of their opponents, Hallgrimsson noted, “We can’t defend all their threats – it’s impossible.” The team will focus on managing Portugal’s attack by conceding certain areas of the field, thereby anticipating their moves. The Republic of Ireland is ready to assert its game plan in what promises to be a challenging match against a formidable opponent.
