Armenia coach says Ireland will play tough

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia national football team head coach Yeghishe Melikyan stated in Dublin ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Ireland that they fully understand how motivated the Irish side is and that the match will be very difficult.

“We know tomorrow’s game will be very tough. Ireland lost earlier, and this is one of their last chances to beat us and stay in contention. We fully understand their motivation. This game will be 100% different from the first one. We must prepare correctly — both mentally and tactically,” Melikyan told Panorama.am .

He emphasized that the Armenian national team plays for the entire Armenian nation.

“The national team plays for all Armenians. When we play abroad, we especially think of the diaspora to make them feel better and proud in a foreign country,” Melikyan said.

He added that leading the national team carries great responsibility and unique psychological challenges.

“Unlike clubs, where players have contracts, in the national team you must appeal to patriotism, commitment, and responsibility,” the coach said.

On October 14, Armenia will face Ireland at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium in the fourth round of the UEFA F Group qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

In the first meeting, Armenia beat Ireland 2-1 at home, marking the first win in the 2026 qualifying campaign.