The Republic of Ireland will face Armenia in a crucial World Cup Group F qualifier at the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday evening, kicking off at 7:45 PM live on RTÉ 2. Captain Nathan Collins reflects on the last encounter, a frustrating defeat in Yerevan, admitting that the team failed to perform at their best. “We never got going. It really hurt because we knew as a team we were so much better than that,” he stated.
This match is critical for Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for next summer’s World Cup. Collins emphasized the need for a stronger performance than last Saturday’s in Lisbon, urging the team to be more adventurous offensively. Head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson acknowledged the challenges in attack during the last match, noting that the formation employed felt overly cautious, limiting chances for strikers like Evan Ferguson and Troy Parrott.
With Josh Cullen suspended after receiving a second booking, Hallgrímsson will likely make changes to the lineup, with Conor Coventry called up as a midfield option. Will Smallbone is the expected replacement for Cullen alongside Jayson Molumby. Hallgrímsson also hinted at potential tactical shifts to enhance attacking intent, emphasizing that wing-backs must spend more time in opposition territory than before.
On the other side, Armenia will be looking to bounce back after a 2-0 loss to Hungary. Head coach Yegishe Melikyan expressed concern over their lack of a ‘classic number nine’ who can capitalize on scoring opportunities, adding that the team’s recent away form, with just one win in their last 13 games on the road, poses a considerable challenge.
Despite these obstacles, Melikyan’s recent leadership has notably invigorated the Armenian side, improving their fighting spirit and intensity, qualities Collins and his team must prepare to combat. The FAI reported a late surge in ticket sales for the match, with over 45,000 already sold, signaling a renewed wave of hope among fans following Ireland’s performance in Portugal.
“We definitely need the fans’ support,” Hallgrímsson remarked, acknowledging their critical role in motivating the team. Collins echoed this sentiment, aiming to rectify the previous performance against Armenia and restore pride in the team’s jersey. “The pressure of putting that green jersey on is something I always wanted and it’s something I’ll never take for granted,” he concluded, expressing determination to capitalize on the opportunity to uplift both the team and the fans. The stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying encounter in Dublin.