Ireland delivered one of their best defensive performances in the previous round against Portugal, narrowly losing 1-0 after conceding a late goal.

That missed point could have been crucial, but hopes of climbing the standings remain alive, provided they secure a must-win result against Armenia.

In their earlier encounter, Ireland lost 2-1 away in a match that could have gone either way. However, playing at home is a different story for Ireland. They are currently on a positive run of four matches without defeat (including a friendly against Senegal), while Armenia has struggled away from home, losing four of their last five away games and conceding 16 goals in the process.