Greece is preparing for two major tests in their upcoming Euros qualifiers with Ireland and France, the former being eyed especially as a must-win contest for the national team’s direct qualification hopes.

The “blue-whites” first take on Ireland on Saturday morning at Agia Sofia Stadium and victory is essential for both sides as they seek a fighting chance to qualify ahead of either France or Netherlands in Group B.

Coach Gus Poyet stressed that he wants the players to consider the game against the Irish as the more vital clash as the result will have a bigger impact (positive or negative) on their mentality moving forward.

“I want us to keep in mind that the most important match is the one against Ireland.

We need a win in this contest to be able to have hope in our future games,” Poyet told media ahead of the matches.

Greece is currently sitting in second with three points, though it is incredibly early into the qualifying campaign, which is why Poyet urged all fans to turn out for the team’s first match at Agia Sophia and give them much-needed strength.

“I want the stadium to be full, it will be easier for us if it is full. I want the fans to support the players.”

The “Εθνική” will have to tackle a mighty France team in their country three days later on Tuesday, and Poyet knows that even a point (or just a strong display from the players) would be a successful result, so long as they earn maximum points against Ireland.

“It will be a big step towards our goal (If we do well in these matches), which is to qualify for the Euros, something we all want to achieve,’ Poyet said.

Cyprus is in line for two clashes with Georgia at home on Sunday and then away to face Norway on Wednesday.

Both will prove quite difficult for the Cypriots, but maximum points will be a must to keep themselves in the running of the Euros, though their chances would still be rather slim.

Group B fixtures (AEST)

Greece-Ireland: 04.45, Sat Jun 17

Gibraltar-France: 04.45, Sat Jun 17

Ireland-Gibraltar: 04.45, Tue Jun 20

France-Greece: 04.45, Tue Jun 20

Group A fixtures (AEDT)

Norway-Scotland: 02.00, Sun Jun 18

Cyprus-Georgia: 04.45, Sun Jun 18

Norway-Cyprus: 04.45, Wed Jun 21

Scotland-Georgia: 05.45, Wed Jun 21