Match preview Hungary – Republic of Ireland
Hungary return to Puskas Arena on Sunday knowing their World Cup fate is in their hands. The 1-0 victory over Armenia took Marco Rossi’s side to eight points from five matches, leaving them second in the group with several qualification scenarios still open.
A win could even take them top if Portugal lose, while a four-goal win combined with a draw for Portugal would also secure top spot.
One point could still be enough for second place if Portugal takes care of business elsewhere.
Hungary has not reached the World Cup final since 1986, and with the nation finishing second twice in its history, the weight of the moment is clear.
Ireland arrive in Budapest with their campaign suddenly revived thanks to Thursday’s superb 2-0 victory over Portugal, sparked by a Troy Parrott brace.
After suffering damaging defeats earlier in the group, back-to-back wins against Armenia and Portugal put them back within reach of the top two.
Ireland can finish first with a win if Portugal lose, while a win combined with any Portugal result will guarantee a playoff spot.
Anything else will see their campaign fail. With only one point separating the two camps, the margins are likely to be slim.
Team news for Hungary vs Republic of Ireland
Hungary reported no new injuries after their win over Armenia, and Rossi is expected to remain with the same XI. Barnabas Varga is expected to lead the line again after scoring the winner, with Dominik Szoboszlai at the heart of the team’s creative play.
Callum Styles is also expected to start after a confident performance in midfield.
Heimir Hallgrimsson is unlikely to make any changes after Ireland’s excellent performance against Portugal. Parrott, in good form at club and international level, will spearhead the attack, supported by Chiedozie Ogbene.
Finn Azaz is expected to retain his place in midfield and the defensive structure that held Portugal scoreless is expected to remain unchanged.
Expected line-ups for Hungary vs Republic of Ireland
Hungary: Dibus; Nego, Orban, Szalai, Kerkez; Schäfer, Styles, Szoboszlai; Bolla, Varga, Sallaï
Republic of Ireland: Kelleher; Coleman, Collins, O’Shea, OBrien, Scales; In other words, Taylor, Cullen; Ogbène, Parrott
How to watch Hungary vs Republic of Ireland: TV channel, online streaming
Hungary v Republic of Ireland kicks off at 2:00 p.m. UK time on Sunday 16 November. It will be available on Amazon Prime.
Hungary vs Republic of Ireland match stats
- Ireland have kept clean sheets in their last two qualifying matches
- Hungary have conceded just four goals in Group F
- Ireland have scored four goals in their last two matches after scoring just twice in their first three.
- Seven of the 14 meetings between these nations ended in draws
- Hungary have lost just once in their last 10 home qualifying matches
Prediction
Ireland need all three points, but Hungary’s home form and resilience under Rossi make them tough opponents.
Ireland should create chances, especially with Parrott in form, but Hungary rarely collapse at home.
A draw appears to be the most realistic outcome, sending Hungary into the play-offs and leaving Ireland just shy of automatic qualification.
