In Pyraeus’ Karaiskakis stadium, with the mercury hitting a blistering 29 degrees during Saturday’s training session, Republic of Ireland’s manager, Heimir Hallgrímsson, expressed his pragmatism. “Even if we play a flawless game, there’s still a chance of defeat against a side like Greece,” the Icelandic coach commented, emphasising the need for realism.
Above all, Hallgrímsson’s mission as the coach for Ireland involves securing a spot in the North American 2026 World Cup. As the 57-year-old’s duties are streamlined, it provides some quiet amidst the constant noise circulating around Irish football.
He has a straightforward blueprint – assemble a reliable team of 13 to 15 regular players who could potentially shock as third seeds, should the mid-December FIFA qualification draw turn out to be favourable for Ireland.
Setting goalposts and assessing the future was a key discussion in this camp, according to Hallgrímsson, who highlighted their supreme objective – World Cup qualification. The recent 2-1 victory over Finland in Helsinki seems a world away from Ireland making a grand return to a major championship in 20 months’ time.
Even though the World Cup will accommodate 48 nations, up from 32, only 16 teams from Europe will participate – the 12 group winners and four from the play-offs in March 2026.
Hallgrímsson is also contemplating pairing Evan Ferguson and Troy Parrott, with the latter substituted for Ferguson in the 71st minute against Finland, on the frontline against Greece. Commenting on Parrott, Hallgrímsson noted that he meets their expectations by continuously aiming to score and showing a willingness to do the runs in behind, even though his style differs slightly from Ferguson’s.
Certainly, there will be occasions when his skills are necessary. It all depends on who our opposition is and the anticipated dynamics of the match,” said Hallgrímsson when discussing the role of a player in his team.
“He performed well, though perhaps a tad overzealous at times. Nevertheless, he was full of enthusiasm. The objective when we bring substitutes on the pitch is to alter the course of the game. As for pairing Ferguson and Parrott, I can see the potential,” Hallgrímsson responded.
“The most successful teams maintain a level of consistency, not necessarily with an 11-player starting lineup but with 13 to 15 players. The aim of every coach is to have a stable team that can provide a comprehensive picture of their game plan.
“I haven’t set a timeline for when I anticipate a steadiness in our approach. Only time will reveal that. The sooner, the better, of course. But the search for a player who outperforms the current line-up is an ongoing process.”
The upcoming Sunday game has been darkened by the unexpected death of 31-year-old Greek international George Baldock, who was discovered lifeless in the pool at his home in Athens last Wednesday.
“I believe this tragic incident will bring them closer together,” suggested Hallgrímsson, “Greece is an accomplished team, known for their rigorous defence and their successful performance record similar to what we’ve seen in England. Instances like these have a way of uniting people, making us appreciate that there is more to life than just football.
“Personally, I am somewhat linked to this sad incident as George had played for my local club in Iceland at the age of 18.” George Baldock had a stint at ÍBV Vestmannaeyjar in 2012, where he played 16 times while on loan from MK Dons.
“We, of course, extend our deepest sympathies to his family and close friends,” Hallgrímsson further expressed. “I anticipate the team will be driven by heightened emotions during this match. Whether this will positively or negatively affect their performance, we will soon discover.”
The forthcoming match between Greece and the Republic of Ireland will be held at the Karaiskakis Stadium in Athens, on Sunday at 7:45 pm. RTÉ2 will broadcast live coverage starting from 7 pm.