Heimir Hallgrimsson is under pressure after Ireland’s 2-1 defeat to Armenia in World Cup qualifying. The loss leaves Ireland at the bottom of their group. Hallgrimsson takes the blame but acknowledges his job is in question if results don’t improve. Ireland faces crucial matches against Portugal and Armenia.
Heimir Hallgrimsson finds himself under immense pressure as the Republic of Ireland's head coach following a shocking 2-1 defeat to Armenia, a result that has severely hampered their aspirations for World Cup qualification. The loss has ignited concerns about the team's direction and Hallgrimsson's leadership, leaving Ireland at the bottom of Group F with a meager one point from their initial two matches.
The campaign began with a disappointing 2-2 home draw against Hungary, but the subsequent defeat in Yerevan has amplified the pressure. The Armenian side, playing with determination and tactical discipline, exposed vulnerabilities in the Irish squad, raising questions about the team's preparation and resilience.
The match unfolded with Eduard Spertsyan converting a penalty in first-half stoppage time after a foul by Nathan Collins, handing Armenia the advantage. Early in the second half, Grant-Leon Ranos extended their lead, further deepening Ireland's predicament. Despite a quick response from Roma loanee Evan Ferguson, who scored to become the first Ireland player to net in three consecutive competitive matches since Stephen Ireland in 2006-07, the Irish side couldn't complete a comeback. The inability to replicate their fightback against Hungary added to the disappointment and amplified the scrutiny on Hallgrimsson.
Hallgrimsson acknowledged the setback, stating to RTE, "Today I take the blame for this. But the players are the same players we were happy with in the second half against Hungary. So, as I said, it is an off day, and we have to look inside and see what we can do differently." His willingness to accept responsibility, however, may not be enough to quell the rising concerns about his future with the team. The defeat has not only jeopardized their qualification chances but also raised questions about the team's overall performance and tactical approach under his guidance.
Defeat in Armenia. pic.twitter.com/VdA6zK2dSL
— Ireland Football (@IrelandFootball) September 9, 2025
Hallgrimsson, who assumed his position last July, has managed to secure four wins in his 12 matches, alongside three draws and five losses. While there have been glimpses of promise, consistency has been elusive, and the recent defeat has amplified the existing doubts. The pressure is mounting on him to deliver tangible results and guide Ireland to a major tournament, a feat that has eluded them for several years.
He is acutely aware that failure to qualify for a fifth consecutive major tournament could lead to his dismissal. "The job of the coach, if they are not producing, then of course it is always a question," he admitted. "I am not naive, it is understandable now, after this performance. I will take the blame, the players need support, and we need to encourage them." His words reflect an understanding of the precarious nature of his position and the need to quickly address the issues plaguing the team.
Looking ahead, Ireland faces a daunting challenge as they prepare to visit Portugal for their next World Cup qualifier on October 11, followed by a rematch against Armenia in Dublin three days later. These upcoming matches are crucial for Ireland's qualification hopes, and Hallgrimsson needs to turn things around quickly to restore confidence and revive their campaign. The pressure is on him to deliver a tactical masterclass and motivate his players to overcome the setback and demonstrate their true potential. The road to the World Cup is fraught with challenges, and Hallgrimsson's ability to navigate these obstacles will determine his future as the Republic of Ireland's head coach.
The loss against Armenia serves as a stark reminder of the competitive nature of international football and the fine margins that can determine success or failure. Ireland must regroup, learn from their mistakes, and approach their upcoming matches with renewed determination and tactical acumen. Hallgrimsson faces a crucial period as he seeks to restore belief and guide his team towards their ultimate goal of World Cup qualification. The coming weeks will be decisive in shaping the future of Irish football and Hallgrimsson's role within it.