Whatever about a miracle, Ireland must strive to siphon measure of respectability from Lisbon

If Heimir Hallgrímsson’s prediction of 70% possession for the hosts ensues, optimisation of the ball is imperative

IN SYNC: Seamus Coleman, centre, with Mikey Johnston, right, and Dara O'Shea, left, during training. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Portugal jogged through their final preparations in the shadow of Estádio Nacional, the scene of Lisbon Lions lore, but Ireland are the ones chasing an historic feat.

Nostalgia accompanies visits to superpowers but the midweek replays of draws secured away to Germany, Netherlands and even Portugal will be left in the shade by Ireland excavating something from this mission.