UEFA -- Portugal vs Ireland

With a doomed Euro 2020 campaign now consigned to history, Portugal return to action on Wednesday to face the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup qualifier in Group A.
 
 
 
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

Both sides have had contrasting runs in the qualifiers, with Portugal being the clearly superior side. Portugal have lost just five times in their last 50 games, which stretches back to 2017. It’s believed that they should have no problem to take down the visitor.