Hungary V Republic of Ireland match preview
Hungary return to the Puskas Arena on Sunday knowing that the World Cup Dust is in their hands. A 1-0 win over Armenia moved Marco Rossi’s side to eight points from five games, leaving them second in the group with a handful of qualification spots still open.
A win would even take a loss against Portugal, while a four-goal win combined with a draw for Portugal would also secure first place.
The point may be that the second time around is enough if Portugal is taking care of business elsewhere.
Hungary has not reached the World Cup finals since 1986, and the nation has finished as runners-up – twice in their history, their weight is clear.
Ireland arrive in Budapest with their campaign suddenly alive and well thanks to Thursday’s 2-0 win over Portugal, Troy Parrott netting twice.
After a devastating spell earlier in the season, back-to-back wins over Armenia and Portugal brought them back within striking distance of the top two.
Ireland can finish first with a win if Portugal lose, while a win combined with a Portugal result of any kind will secure a play-off spot.
Anything else will see their campaign fall short. With just one point separating the two sides, the margins are likely to be huge.
Team news for Hungary V Republic of Ireland
Hungary reported no new injuries after their victory over Armenia, and Rossi is expected to stick with the same XI. Barnabas Varga should also lead the line after scoring the winner, with Dominik Szoboszlai Central to the Team’s Creative Play.
Callum Styles is also set to start after a proven performance in Midfield.
Heimir HallGrimSson is likely to make changes following Ireland’s impressive display against Portugal. Parrott, in strong club and world form, will lead the attack, supported by Chiedozie Ogbene.
Finn Azaz should keep his place on the pitch, and the defensive structure that dominated Portugal’s Scarless is expected to remain unchanged.
Expected Line-ups for Hungary V Republic of Ireland
Hungary: Dibusz; Nego, Orban, Szalai, Kerkez; Schafer, styles, Szoboszlai; BOLLA, Varga, Sallai
Republic of Ireland: Kelleher; Coleman, Collins, Oshea, Obrien, scale; Azaz, Taylor, Cullen; Ogbene, Parrott
How to watch Hungary V Republic of Ireland: TV channel, streaming online
Hungary V Republic of Ireland kicks off at 2:00 PM UK time on Sunday, 16 November. It will be available to watch on Amazon Prime.
Statistics of Hungary V Republic of Ireland
- Ireland have kept clean sheets in their last Qualiviers
- Hungary conceded only four goals in Group F
- Ireland have scored four goals in their last two games after scoring just twice in their first three
- Seven of the 14 meetings between these nations have ended in draws
- Hungary have only lost once in their last Qualifiers at home
Industry forecasting
Ireland needed all three points, but Hungary’s home form and their consistency under Rossi made them tough opponents.
Ireland should create chances, especially with Parrott in form, but Hungary rarely fall on home soil.
The draw feels very real, sending Hungary through to the play-offs and leaving Ireland just short of automatic qualification.
