Lisbon and Elche are set to host crucial World Cup 2026 qualifying matches today, as Portugal faces the Republic of Ireland and Spain takes on Georgia in their respective Group F and Group E encounters.
Portugal vs. Republic of Ireland
Portugal will host the Republic of Ireland at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon. The match kicks off at 19:45 local time (GMT+1). Portugal currently leads Group F with 6 points from two games, while Ireland is at the bottom with only 1 point.
Portugal enters the match as the clear favorite, having won all five of their most recent competitive matches. In their first two qualifiers, they secured a 5-0 victory and a 3-2 win. However, despite their strong form, their defense has shown vulnerabilities, conceding goals in recent matches. Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to start upfront, aiming to add to his tally of 3 goals in the qualifiers and inch closer to his 1,000th career goal.
Ireland, on the other hand, is desperate for a win to revive their qualifying hopes. They will be without several key players due to injury, including Matt Doherty and Jason Knight. Evan Ferguson is expected to lead the attack.
The match is Portugal's first home game since the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car crash earlier this year.
Spain vs. Georgia
Spain will play Georgia at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero in Elche. The match starts at 2:45 p.m. ET. Spain currently tops Group E after winning both of their matches against Bulgaria (3-0) and Turkey (6-0).
Spain is heavily favored to win and potentially clinch their World Cup spot early. However, they will be missing Lamine Yamal due to a groin injury. Despite this setback, the team remains confident, with coach Luis de la Fuente emphasizing the importance of every match.
Georgia has had a mixed start to their World Cup Qualifying campaign. After losing 3-2 to Turkey, they bounced back with a 3-0 victory over Bulgaria. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia will be a key player for Georgia.
Where to Watch
- Portugal vs. Republic of Ireland: The game will be broadcast on Bein sports 5 mena and RTE2 (Ireland). It will also be available via live stream on ViX+/fuboTV. In the UK, the match will be available to stream live on Amazon Prime Video. In Ireland, the match can be streamed for free on RTÉ Player.
- Spain vs. Georgia: The game will be broadcast on fuboTV, Foxsports.com, Amazon Prime Video, ViX, FOX Sports App, FOX One and Fox Sports 2 in the USA. In the UK, it will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video.
With both matches holding significant implications for World Cup 2026 qualification, fans can anticipate fierce competition and compelling narratives as these European powerhouses strive for a coveted spot in the tournament.
