Portugal vs Ireland: World Cup qualifier – teams, start, lineups

Excitement is building as the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches kick off, featuring Portugal against the Republic of Ireland and Spain facing Georgia. These games are crucial for teams aiming to secure their spots in the prestigious tournament. With standout performances expected, including Norway's Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick, fans are eager to see how these matches unfold and impact the teams' chances of qualification.

The live coverage of the UEFA World Cup qualifier between Portugal and the Republic of Ireland is set to provide fans with real-time updates and team news. This match is crucial as it plays a significant role in determining the teams' chances of qualifying for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, making it an exciting event for football enthusiasts.

France's recent victory over Azerbaijan in the World Cup qualifiers was overshadowed by the injury of star player Kylian Mbappe. While the 3-0 win brings them closer to qualifying for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, losing such a key player raises concerns about their chances in upcoming matches. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this impacts the team's performance moving forward.

Emma Doran, an Irish standup comedian, reflects on her journey into comedy, which began during her maternity leave. She candidly shares her struggles with traditional jobs and the creative void she felt before taking the leap into standup. Doran's story resonates as she discusses the challenges of navigating success and the pressures women face regarding societal expectations. Her insights not only highlight the importance of pursuing one's passion but also shed light on the often unspoken struggles behind the scenes in the comedy world.

The recent launch of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup has sparked frustration among fans, revealing a troubling trend in how emotions are monetized. With dynamic pricing and corporate jargon, many fans found themselves in long online queues only to face exorbitant prices for seats at MetLife Stadium. This situation highlights the growing disconnect between FIFA's promises of accessibility and the reality of ticket purchasing, raising concerns about the future of fan engagement in major sporting events.

Fifa is revisiting its regulations regarding the staging of domestic league games overseas for the first time since 2014. With La Liga and Serie A planning matches in Miami and Perth, Fifa is seeking legal advice on whether it can implement a ban on such practices. This review is significant as it could reshape how international matches are organized and ensure that local leagues maintain their integrity.

In Albufeira, a popular resort city in southern Portugal, the local elections are drawing attention as the far-right party Chega aims to gain traction among voters. Billboards throughout the city showcase both the allure of its beaches and nightlife, as well as the party's promises. This election could serve as a pivotal moment for Chega, potentially allowing it to expand its influence beyond local politics. The outcome may reflect broader trends in Portuguese politics and the growing appeal of far-right ideologies in Europe.

The campaign to nominate President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize has gained momentum following the recent victory of Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado. This shift in focus highlights the ongoing discussions around Trump's potential contributions to peace efforts, especially in the context of international relations. As the world watches, this nomination could spark debates about the criteria for such prestigious awards and the impact of political figures on global peace.

Russia has launched an international essay contest titled 'Open Dialogue – 2026', inviting participants from around the globe to share their visions for the future. This initiative not only encourages creativity and critical thinking among young minds but also fosters international dialogue and understanding, making it a significant platform for cultural exchange.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is considering the possibility of moving World Cups and Club World Cups to winter months, citing concerns about the heat in Europe during July. This discussion is part of ongoing talks about the football calendar post-2030, reflecting the need for adaptability in scheduling major tournaments. This matters because it could significantly impact how fans experience these events and the logistics involved in hosting them.

FIFA's decision not to ban Israel from the World Cup 2026 qualifiers has sparked controversy, especially in light of the ongoing situation in Gaza. Critics argue that this reflects a troubling double standard, prioritizing political and economic interests over human rights. This decision matters because it raises questions about the integrity of sports organizations and their role in global political issues, potentially influencing public perception and international relations.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first footballer to join the billionaire club, as reported by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion. This milestone is significant not only for Ronaldo but also for the sport, showcasing the immense financial opportunities available to top athletes. His recent $400 million deal with Saudi club Al-Nassr has undoubtedly contributed to this achievement, highlighting the growing influence of football in global markets.

Excitement is building as the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches kick off, featuring Portugal against the Republic of Ireland and Spain facing Georgia. These games are crucial for teams aiming to secure their spots in the prestigious tournament. With standout performances expected, including Norway's Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick, fans are eager to see how these matches unfold and impact the teams' chances of qualification.

Ian Watkins, the convicted paedophile singer, has died following an attack in Wakefield prison. Watkins was serving a lengthy 29-year sentence for multiple child sex offences, which he admitted to in 2013. His death raises questions about prison safety and the treatment of high-profile inmates, highlighting ongoing concerns about the management of violent offenders.

A Hamas official has stated that disarmament is not an option, while Israel is preparing to exchange prisoners as part of a truce deal. This exchange involves releasing prisoners, some of whom are serving life sentences for serious offenses, in return for hostages. The situation remains tense, and the implications of these negotiations are significant for both sides, as they navigate the complexities of peace and security in the region.

In a significant turn of events, the National Guard has begun patrols in Memphis, Tennessee, marking a notable response to ongoing immigration enforcement issues. This development comes as Democratic Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth faced barriers when attempting to visit an immigration facility near Chicago, highlighting tensions with the Trump administration. Their experience underscores the challenges faced by lawmakers in addressing immigration policies and the growing militarization of local responses to these issues, which could have lasting implications for communities and national discourse.

A tragic explosion at a munitions factory in Tennessee has left 18 people unaccounted for, and officials now presume them dead. This incident highlights the dangers associated with explosives manufacturing and raises concerns about workplace safety regulations. The loss of life in such a catastrophic event is a stark reminder of the risks faced by workers in high-stakes industries.

A'ja Wilson is making waves in the WNBA, solidifying her status as a potential greatest of all time before turning 30. Her remarkable season with the Las Vegas Aces culminated in a championship victory over the Phoenix Mercury, showcasing her exceptional talent and leadership. This achievement not only highlights her individual prowess but also elevates the profile of women's basketball, inspiring future generations and drawing more attention to the league.