Armenia Shock Ireland with 2-1 Defeat in World Cup Qualifier

The Republic of Ireland suffered a crushing 2-1 defeat to Armenia in Yerevan during their second World Cup 2026 qualifier, dealing a severe blow to their hopes of qualification. This result represents one of the most calamitous outcomes in the nation's recent football history.


After an energetic start from Ireland, Armenia struck just before half-time when Eduard Spertsyan converted a penalty in added time. The visitors then conceded again early in the second half to Grant-Leon Ranos. Ireland responded with a strike from Evan Ferguson in the 57th minute, but their efforts were insufficient to salvage the game.


Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson admitted that Ireland now needs “a miracle” to qualify, acknowledging that this was tactically their worst performance under his stewardship.


With only one point from their first two qualifiers, Ireland now face an uphill battle. A trip to Portugal in October follows next, but their path to World Cup qualification is hanging by a thread.

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