Palhinha sure of challenge Ireland present to Portugal

Portugal will not just qualify for the showpiece across North America but travel there among those tipped to lift the only trophy missing from their collection.

Tue, 07 Oct, 2025 - 20:53

John Fallon

Tottenham’s João Palhinha is your typical Portuguese international; regularly involved in eight-figure transfers without nailing down a regular spot with the UEFA Nations League champions.

An injury to João Neves, however, prevents Roberto Martinez from continuing the partnership with Vitinha that backboned Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League triumph last summer.

Palhinha is a willing and worthy replacement for Saturday’s visit of Ireland to his native Lisbon.

Since leaving Bayern Munich for London, on a season-long loan with an option to buy for €30m, he’s been a constant for new boss Thomas Frank.

Finding the net three times, including the win over Manchester City and rescuing a draw at home to Wolves, have complemented his importance.

He’s the favourite to deputise for Neves, as the Portuguese seek to maintain their 100% start at the midway stage, moving within touching distance of a ticket to the World Cup next year.

They’ll not just qualify for the showpiece across North America but travel there among those tipped to lift the only trophy missing from their collection.

“Ireland is a team we know well,” said the 30-year-old, highlighting the last World Cup qualifying campaign, when Ireland led until the final minute.

“We've played them previously and I remember that match in the Algarve when we were behind and managed to win 2-1.

“I know many of their players because they play in England - and for good teams. It's always going to be a tough game but we’ve yet to fully analyse them.”

Portugal messed up that last World Cup campaign by suffering a late loss to Serbia in the final game of 2021 but they’ve not been beaten in a competitive home match for three years, since a narrow defeat to Iberian rivals Spain.

“Victories bring a lot of confidence to the team,” he said about their rampaging run.

“More than ever, we're going through a phase in the national team where, when we look around, we see the quality of the teammates at our side.

“We also feel that the spirit and unity are greater than in the past. And perhaps that's what gave way at certain moments. I see a united team, very hungry to win tournaments.

Palhinha was restricted to just 17 Bundesliga appearances after joining from Fulham, inactivity he claims affected his international prospects.

He added: “Our team is full of players who are club regulars. Last season wasn’t easy for me, especially when I was injured, and then I didn't get the opportunities I deserved at Bayern.

“Careers go through phases and now I'm in a happy phase in my life. A new club, a new project. Yes, a league that's not new to me but the team is fruitful. Football and life can be very temporary so we must enjoy these moments.”