Portugal
Portugal have taken seven points from three games to sit at the top of the group. Portugal suffered a quarter-final exit from the Euros when they fell to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Belgium. Despite having to share the spoils in a 2-2 draw with Serbia, Portugal's victories over Azerbaijan and Luxembourg in Group A witnessed them rise to the summit after the opening round of qualifying fixtures. They are currently level with Serbia at the top of Group A and sit above them on goal difference.
Ireland
Following an underwhelming start to their qualifier campaign, Ireland find themselves fourth in Group A, only above rock-bottom Azerbaijan on goal difference. Ireland are yet to pick up a point so far after losing both of their opening fixtures against Serbia and Luxembourg in March. They have also managed one win from their subsequent three friendly games, while playing out draws against Hungary and Qatar.
Prediction