MAKE OR BREAK TIME FOR IRELAND
Ever since I was a boy, I’ve dream of seeing Ireland play at a World Cup. The heroes of 2002 came too early for me, and in 2009, Thierry Henry literally slapped those dreams out of reach from me and the entire nation. This coming Saturday, Heimir Hallgrimsson and his Irish squad begin their World Cup qualification.
Group F is no piece of cake, but there is optimism that Ireland can get at least a second-place play-off spot! The main opposition in the way of that goal is Saturday nights opponents Hungary. Provided Portugal run away with the group and Armenia take their place as the groups whipping boys, it will be a straight shoot-out between the Irish and Hungarians for 2nd spot.
Hungary boasts star talent in the shape of Liverpool’s brilliant duo of Dominik Szoboszlai and Milos Kerkez. The former showed just this past weekend how he can damage Ireland, his stunning 30-yard free kick the difference in a 1-0 victory vs Arsenal.
With the awful injury news to Troy Parrot, Hallgrimsson will be hoping that a rejuvenated Evan Ferguson can lead the line and become the nation’s talisman. Ferguson has been key to AS Roma’s perfect start in Seria A this season, his beautiful assist for Mathias Soule leading them to a 1-0 win away to Pisa.
If this was an ideal world, Ireland will have 6 points before the trip to Portugal on the 11th of October. If that’s the case, then a cagey draw in Lisbon will have us dreaming of automatic qualification. However, I can’t see past Portugal winning this group with maximum points though, so it really will be a dog fight with Hungary for 2nd.
In my opinion, Ireland will win both games this week. I don’t care if it’s not realistic or attainable. I’m confident that were going to do it. Take pride in playing for your country lads and do us proud.
COYBIG!