Yeghishe Melikyan: “The match against Ireland will be a real football battle”

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland, which will take place on October 14 in Dublin, Armenia’s national team head coach Yeghishe Melikyan shared his expectations and thoughts about the upcoming game.

Yeghishe Melikyan’s press conference before the return match against Ireland

— What differences do you see between working with clubs and with the national team?
— Of course, there are differences. In the national team, the responsibility is much greater. The psychology and attitude are also different. In clubs, players play under contract, for money — it’s easier to demand something from them. In the national team, players are called up; there are no financial motivations here. The key factors are responsibility, love for the homeland, and character.

— In many away matches, like tomorrow’s one in Ireland, the team is supported by numerous fans from the diaspora. What does that mean to you?
— It means we play for them. The Armenian national team plays for all Armenians — both at home and abroad. We want our compatriots living abroad to be proud of the team. At home or away, we represent all Armenians.

— Was there any issue with Nair Tiknizyan’s visa to Ireland?
— No, there were no such issues, everything is fine.

— Will you be able to play better in Dublin than in Yerevan?
— After the victory, I said that the match in Dublin would be completely different. We are mentally ready and understand that it will be very difficult. Ireland lost the previous match, and this is their last chance, so their motivation will be very high. We must be 100% ready — both mentally and tactically.

— Ireland’s head coach said that this is a very important match for them and they must win. Do you agree?
— Yes, I understand their motivation. We are in the same position. Both teams lost their recent matches and dropped important points. Therefore, the three points tomorrow will mean a lot. I think we’re in for a real football battle. The game will show who deserves to win.

It’s worth recalling that in the first match between the teams in Yerevan, Armenia won 2–1. Before the Dublin clash, Armenia lost to Hungary, while Ireland were defeated by Portugal.

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