As football evolves, so also does its grandest stage. The FIFA World Cup expands to a 48‑team format in 2026, granting more nations the thrill of qualification and a shot at history.
For Republic of Ireland supporters, Group F promises suspense but also opportunity. Scheduled to run from September through November 2025, it pits Ireland against heavyweights Portugal, Hungary and Armenia.
The mechanics are simple but unforgiving: top of the group goes straight to North America in summer 2026, while second place must battle through play‑offs. It could be a defining campaign for Stephen Kenny’s side.
Irish fans don’t need to be reminded that they haven’t qualified for a World Cup since 2002 – when they reached the round of 16 – but this new format provides them with an opportunity to create history, and they should definitely be optimistic.
Check out the odds on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers here.
Group F overview
On paper, Portugal stand atop the pile. European champions in 2016, Nations League winners in 2019, and with a generation still brimming with elite talent, they will expect not only to qualify but also to dominate Group F from start to finish.
Hungary, under Marco Rossi, are arguably the most tactically astute of the remaining three, while Armenia – often overlooked – can cause damage when underestimated. For Ireland, it’s a campaign where fine margins could define the difference between a summer in the USA or another painful chapter of ‘what ifs’.
The match calendar is unforgiving: 6th to 9th September, 11th to 14th October, and 13th to 16th November. Three double-headers. Three chances to set the tone. Let’s take a closer look at those dates and all important matches.
Group F fixtures – 6th September
Armenia vs Portugal: Yerevan, Kick-off: 18:00 local/15:00 UK
Portugal begin their campaign with what appears, at first glance, a formality. However, Armenia, playing at the Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium, are no pushovers on home turf.
Portugal’s technical superiority should tell, but opening day nerves can be equalising. History suggests that we should expect a narrow away win – Portugal have won four of the last five meetings all by a single goal, including a 3-2 thriller the last time they met back in 2015.
Republic of Ireland vs Hungary: Dublin, Kick-off: 20:45 local/20:45 UK
A heavyweight clash for second place – even this early. Hungary’s recent resurgence, including competitive showings in the Nations League and Euros, means that they will travel with confidence.
Ireland will need intensity, sharp pressing and control in midfield if they are to have any chance of winning their opening match. The Aviva crowd will play a major role and three points here could frame the entire campaign. A recent 2-1 friendly win against Hungary will give the Irish hope.
Group F fixtures – 9th September
Armenia vs Republic of Ireland: Yerevan, Kick-off: 18:00 local/15:00 UK
Just three days after hosting Hungary, Ireland travel east to face Armenia. Managing squad rotation and recovery will be key, and hopefully they won’t pick up any injuries against Hungary in the process.
As mentioned, Armenia could be tricky opposition – they’re compact, physical and disruptive – but if Ireland have serious ambitions of at least reaching the play-offs, this has to be a win. A mature, controlled performance could settle it early.
Hungary vs Portugal: Budapest, Kick-off: 20:45 local/19:45 UK
Hungary have taken points off top sides before, including draws against Germany and wins over England in recent years.
But Portugal’s attacking depth – from João Félix to Rafael Leão – makes them hard to contain. If Hungary take a point, they’ll emerge from this window in strong shape, leaving Irish fans rather frustrated. They need a favour from Portugal wherever possible.
Group F fixtures – 11th October
Hungary vs Armenia: Budapest, Kick-off: 18:00 local/17:00 UK
This looks to be a must-win for Hungary on paper. Dropped points here would severely damage their campaign, especially given that tougher fixtures remain. Armenia may aim for a low block and counter-attacks, and Hungary must show patience and use width effectively.
This could be a test of tactical discipline more than flair – but anything other than a home win would be a huge shock and blow Group F wide open.
Portugal vs Republic of Ireland: Lisbon, Kick-off: 20:45 local/20:45 UK
This is a daunting trip for Ireland. The last time these two met competitively in Lisbon, Ireland produced a spirited performance but lost narrowly. This time, Ireland may be tempted to sit deep and frustrate – playing for a point – though this could be a dangerous game for 90 minutes.
Portugal will likely dominate the ball, but Ireland’s pace on the break may offer rare moments. Could we witness a historic Irish performance in Lisbon?
Group F fixtures – 14th October
Republic of Ireland vs Armenia: Dublin, Kick-off: 18:00 local/18:00 UK
This is where Ireland must be clinical. Armenia, coming off a tough away trip to Hungary, may arrive fatigued. Ireland’s goal difference could become important later in the group, and they’ll be expected to rack up a decisive win. This match, coming just three days after the trip to Portugal, will also test squad depth.
Portugal vs Hungary: Lisbon, Kick-off: 20:45 local/20:45 UK
This could be the defining fixture for Hungary. If they’ve stayed unbeaten to this point, there may be something riding on this trip. Portugal, at home, will be aggressive – they’ll play possession-heavy, high-tempo football. Hungary’s tactical flexibility could frustrate, but anything less than perfect execution risks a loss.
Group F fixtures – 13th November
Armenia vs Hungary: Yerevan, Kick-off: 17:00 local/13:00 UK
Late in the campaign, this fixture could swing on tired legs and mental pressure. If Hungary are still within reach of the top two, this inevitably becomes vital. Armenia may relish the chance to spoil the party – they have rapidly improved in recent years. These are the fixtures that often produce surprise results, especially when one side is already eliminated.
Republic of Ireland vs Portugal: Dublin, Kick-off: 17:00 local/17:00 UK
Now, this is the marquee match for Irish fans. By now, the table may be tight, and any result could send Ireland through or out. If Portugal have already qualified, Ireland might be fortunate enough to face a rotated XI. If not, this could be an incredibly tough test once more. Expect a charged atmosphere and a performance of passion – but can Ireland rise above? Irish fans can certainly dream.
Group F fixtures – 16th November
Hungary vs Republic of Ireland: Budapest, Kick-off: 15:00 local/14:00 UK
The final act. This could be a head-to-head for second place, or even qualification if Portugal slip. It might come down to goal difference or head-to-head records. Historically, Hungary have the edge in home fixtures, but Ireland’s grit can’t be dismissed. One thing is certain: this match will not be one for the faint-hearted.
Portugal vs Armenia: Lisbon, Kick-off: 15:00 local/15:00 UK
Portugal will likely already have done enough, but finishing top with style will be the aim. Armenia, regardless of their standing, could throw caution to the wind. Don’t be surprised if we see a few goals in Lisbon – and a few potential squad players getting minutes ahead of the World Cup.
Can Ireland reach the 2026 World Cup? Find out the pre-match odds here.
Our expert predictions
As it stands, Portugal are all but assured of top spot – but second place? It’s wide open.
Ireland’s route to the play-offs – or a miracle qualification – depends on handling Hungary across two legs, and collecting six points from Armenia. Anything from Portugal is a bonus. That said, Ireland are often at their best when underestimated, and Kenny has finally found a generation blending youth and experience.
Want to keep up with the latest odds? Tonybet’s market movements throughout the campaign can offer insight into how bookmakers are rating Ireland’s chances. Just remember: football’s never played on paper.
