Heimir Hallgrimsson said this about Portugal after stunning win against Germany
Heimir Hallgrímsson insists Ireland can still target top-spot in their World Cup qualifiers - and that the Boys in Green shouldn't fear a Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired Portugal.
Ronaldo scored the winner on Wednesday night as Roberto Martinez's side ran Germany ragged in their Nations League semi-final win in Munch.
Their awesome attacking display should have been rewarded by more than just the two goals they scored, through Francisco Conceicao and Ronaldo.
However, Hallgrímsson insisted: 'I don't think (Wednesday's) game will matter when it comes to October, when we face them. Let's see what the situation will be then.
'But obviously the campaign is tough. If you end up second, you need to go through two play-off matches to qualify.
'So everybody's eyes at the beginning of the tournament are on first spot.
'And I think looking at the group, there will be lost points, even for Portugal. So we just need to take care of ourselves and let's see where that brings us.'
Ireland take on Senegal on Friday night in their first of two friendlies - including a trip to Luxembourg next Tuesday - and Hallgrímsson reckons the African giants will give his side a 'massive' test.
Troy Parrott is the only doubt. Illness meant that he was confined to his hotel bedroom all day Wednesday.
However, the Dubliner felt well enough to take part in Thursday morning's final training session before the first ever meeting with the 2021 African Cup of Nations winners.
Hallgrímsson said: 'Troy has been sick, he was sick yesterday and stayed in his room, but he was feeling much better this morning, so he was the only concern we have.
'Everyone else is fit, everybody is ready and looking forward to it. It has been a positive environment this camp, sharp players, and we're really happy with the sessions up to now.'
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