Republic of Ireland’s World Cup qualification hopes are in tatters after a shocking 2-1 defeat to Armenia. The loss raises serious questions about manager Heimir Hallgrimsson’s future, with defensive frailties and midfield issues exposed. With a tough fixture list ahead, a miracle is needed.
The Republic of Ireland suffered what many are calling one of their most embarrassing defeats in recent memory, a stunning 2-1 loss to Armenia in Yerevan. This result, against a team ranked 105th in the FIFA world rankings, has effectively extinguished their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup with only two games played. The defeat has sparked serious questions about the direction of the team under manager Heimir Hallgrimsson and fueled speculation about his future.
Image source, Getty ImagesJason Knight has his head in his hands after Republic of Ireland's shock defeat in Yerevan
Hallgrimsson's contract extends until the end of this World Cup campaign, a campaign that now appears likely to end prematurely in November, rather than at next year's tournament finals in North America. The team had entered this qualification period with high hopes, aiming to reach their first World Cup since 2002, buoyed by an unbeaten start to 2025.
Those hopes have been quickly dashed, with the Republic of Ireland securing just one point from their initial two matches in Group F. A 2-2 draw against Hungary in Dublin revealed both strengths and weaknesses. After trailing 2-0 at halftime due to defensive errors and relying on goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to prevent a larger deficit, the team mounted a comeback, with Adam Idah's late goal salvaging a draw.
The draw against Hungary offered a glimmer of hope, but it was quickly extinguished by the defeat in Yerevan. Hallgrimsson attempted to address the midfield issues by introducing Jack Taylor alongside Josh Cullen and Jason Knight. However, this combination lasted only 45 minutes. Taylor was substituted at halftime, with Hallgrimsson bringing on Idah as a second striker in a tactical shift aimed at gaining control.
Instead, this change backfired, leaving the midfield vulnerable. With just Cullen and Knight, the midfield was easily bypassed, and Armenia exploited the space with long balls. Former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given criticized the change, noting that Armenia easily played through the lines after the tactical adjustment.
Killian Phillips, a second-half substitute, was the fourth and final central midfield option, highlighting the limited depth in that area. Cullen and Knight, despite being Hallgrimsson's preferred pairing, lack the necessary pace, physicality, and technical skills to dominate.
The defense, which was expected to be a source of strength, also faltered. Despite boasting Premier League-quality defenders such as O'Brien and Nathan Collins, along with Dara O'Shea and Ryan Manning, the team struggled to contain Armenia's attacking threats. Collins, in particular, had a difficult night, struggling against Tigran Barseghyan and Lucas Zelarayan, conceding a penalty, and losing Grant-Leon Ranos for Armenia's second goal.
Image source, Getty ImagesCaptain Nathan Collins endured a tough evening in Yerevan
Former Republic of Ireland defender Stephen Kelly criticized the team's defensive performance, highlighting Kelleher's role in keeping the score respectable. While qualification remains mathematically possible, the Republic of Ireland faces a daunting task in their remaining fixtures.
Two games against Portugal, who defeated Armenia 5-0 and Hungary 3-2, loom large. A home match against Armenia and an away game against Hungary further complicate their path. Similar to previous failed campaigns, this World Cup qualifying series appears to be unraveling quickly. The team will now be playing for pride, hoping for a miracle. The frequent concession of the first goal and the lack of clean sheets under Hallgrimsson paint a grim picture. If the issues are not addressed, this could be Hallgrimsson's final act as manager.