Portugal is poised to secure direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a crucial match against the Republic of Ireland later this week.
A victory in Dublin on Thursday at 7:45 PM local time (UTC+1) would guarantee Portugal’s first-place finish in Group F.
The team currently leads Group F with 10 points, a five-point advantage over second-placed Hungary.
A draw against Ireland could also be sufficient for direct qualification, depending on Hungary’s result against Armenia on the same day.
The winner of each group automatically qualifies for the expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Teams finishing second in their groups will advance to a playoff round.
During a recent training session open to media, 20 field players, including debutant Carlos Forbs, conducted warm-up exercises led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
The three goalkeepers trained separately from the main squad.
Midfielder Vitinha was the only player to miss pitch training, staying in the gym for recovery.
The Paris Saint-Germain player suffered a foot injury from a recent French league match but is expected to be fit for the game against Ireland.
Following the match in Dublin, Portugal will conclude its Group F campaign against Armenia in Porto on Sunday at 2:00 PM local time (UTC+1).
Current Group F standings show Portugal with 10 points, followed by Hungary with 5 points, the Republic of Ireland with 4 points, and Armenia with 3 points.