The Red Card of Barselyan is My Responsibility: Yeghishe Melikyan

The head coach of the Armenian national team, Yeghishe Melikyan, has summarized the match against Ireland (0-1) in the qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup. The game took place on October 14 in Dublin and ended with Ireland's victory.

The Armenian team played with one player less since the 52nd minute when Tigran Barselyan was sent off for headbutting an Irish player.

“Yes, the red card spoiled the game, but it was my player's mistake, therefore it is my mistake. Everything that happens with my players is my responsibility. Our fans expected us to score, but we were unable to do that in two matches for various reasons, for which I apologize. Nevertheless, I am proud of my players,” said head coach Yeghishe Melikyan.

He added, “I personally haven’t spoken to him, but I have talked to the whole team. I thanked the boys for their dedication. As for the negative aspects, we will have time to analyze and correct them. The most important thing now is to stay united and accept the defeat like men in order to move forward. I also congratulate our opponents on their victory.”

“We were well prepared. We knew that our opponent would change their formation during the game, and we adapted quickly. We managed to close the dangerous areas and create opportunities in the attacking line. I am confident that if we played with an equal number of players, we could have scored. Even with ten men, we took risks and advanced, we were close to equalizing. I believe we are on the right track; this team has a bright future,” he concluded.