Ireland vs Armenia Prediction & Betting Tips (14 October)

Ireland and Armenia prepare for a pivotal World Cup 2026 qualifier, with fresh lineups and coaching shifts shaping the narrative.

The Republic of Ireland enters this clash with renewed optimism under head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson, who has emphasized resilience following their dramatic 2-2 comeback against Hungary. Young striker Evan Ferguson continues to impress, netting twice in the qualifiers so far, while Adam Idah adds firepower with a late equalizer in the previous match. The squad features a blend of experience and youth, including Matt Doherty, Josh Cullen, and emerging talents like Jason Knight and Mikey Johnston. Hallgrímsson’s tactical tweaks have injected energy into the side, and the Aviva Stadium faithful will be eager to see their team build on recent momentum.

Armenia, meanwhile, is undergoing a transitional phase under new manager Yeghishe Melikyan. His tenure began with a sobering 5-0 defeat to Portugal, prompting calls for generational change. The retirement of long-serving captain Varazdat Haroyan and the injury to key defender Styopa Mkrtchyan have left gaps in leadership and defense. Melikyan has responded by introducing fresh faces like Narek Aghasaryan and Karen Nalbandyan, aiming to rejuvenate the squad. Midfield dynamo Eduard Spertsyan and forward Grant-Leon Ranos remain central to Armenia’s attacking hopes, but cohesion remains a work in progress.

Both teams are navigating challenges—Ireland with their rebuilding under Hallgrímsson and Armenia with their post-Haroyan identity crisis. The tactical battle will likely hinge on Ireland’s pressing game and Armenia’s ability to counter through Zelarayán and Barseghyan. With Ireland’s home advantage and sharper form, the edge leans toward the Boys in Green. Our prediction: a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Ireland, with Ferguson once again making the difference in front of goal.