‘We have our plans,’ says Armenia manager ahead of Portugal face-off

Armenia manager Yeghishe Melikyan said on Friday that the September 6 match against Portugal is going to be difficult but noted that the latter have weaknesses, albeit few.

“A difficult match awaits us,” he said at a pre-match press conference in Yerevan. “This is nothing new, Portugal is a top-class team and a serious opponent for us. We have our plans. Portugal has weaknesses, albeit few,” Melikyan added.

He said he has yet to decide who will be captain of his team in the upcoming match. 

The coach said Styopa Mkrtchyan will not play in the matches against Portugal and Ireland due to an injury. 

The Armenia vs. Portugal first leg UEFA Group F European qualifier for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place in Yerevan on September 6.