Key Takeaways:
- Ireland secured a 3:2 away victory against Hungary, clinching a playoff place in the World Cup qualifiers last night
- Troy Parrott scored all three goals for Ireland, including the decisive winner after the allotted added time
- Portugal won Group F outright with a 9:1 victory over Armenia and secured automatic World Cup qualification
Match Analysis: Irish Resilience Seals Stunning Comeback
The Republic of Ireland produced a remarkable display to overturn the odds in Budapest, triumphing 3:2 over Hungary in a dramatic conclusion to their World Cup qualifying campaign. Entering the decisive encounter with a one-point deficit, Ireland needed a win to overtake their hosts and claim a vital playoff position. A late winner from Troy Parrott, arriving after the minimum stoppage time had elapsed, ensured the Irish leapfrogged Hungary into second place in Group F.
▪️ Five goals in two games against Portugal and Hungary
▪️ First-ever Ireland player to score a hat-trick away from home
▪️ Helped send Ireland to World Cup playoffsTroy Parrott had himself an international break to remember 👏🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/AMy2aFDHL3
— B/R Football (@brfootball) November 16, 2025
Hungary seized the early initiative at the Puskás Aréna, with Dániel Lukács finding the net in the 4th minute following a precise delivery by Dominik Szoboszlai. Though Hungary required only a draw to advance, the contest remained open throughout. Parrott brought Ireland level in the 15th minute, converting from the penalty spot. The hosts soon responded; in the 37th minute, Milos Kerkez set up Barnabás Varga, who found a way past former Liverpool shot-stopper Caoimhín Kelleher to restore Hungary’s advantage. Both Hungarian goals were marginally onside.
Despite dominating proceedings and fashioning numerous chances, Marco Rossi’s side failed to extend their lead. Their profligacy proved costly as Ireland, with minimal chances, made their opportunities count. In the 80th minute, Parrott restored parity with Ireland’s first shot on target of the second half, giving the visitors renewed hope.
Decisive Moments in Added Time
Sensing their chance, Ireland pressed for the crucial third goal. The tension inside the Puskás Aréna was palpable as, in the opening seconds of added time, Hungarian keeper Dénes Dibusz produced a crucial save following Jonny Kenny’s effort. However, the Irish did not relent, as Parrott capitalised late on, completing his hat-trick and sealing an unforgettable 3:2 triumph.
This win means that Hungary, whose last appearance at the World Cup finals dates back to the 1986 tournament in Mexico, miss out once more. Notably, Parrott has netted five goals in his last two outings, including both goals in Ireland’s recent 2:0 win over Portugal, establishing himself as a pivotal figure in their qualification campaign.
Portugal emphatically wrapped up top spot in Group F, having thrashed Armenia 9:1 to guarantee their return to the World Cup. Meanwhile, Ireland will now prepare for the playoffs, which are scheduled for March 2026, as they attempt to qualify for their first World Cup finals since 2002.
Looking Forward
With this stirring result, Ireland are set to contest the playoffs in pursuit of a long-awaited World Cup return. Hungary, despite holding a promising position prior to kick-off, saw their campaign unravel late on and will not make the finals, extending their absence on the global stage. The Irish faithful will hope Parrott’s prolific form continues as the team bids to end a 24-year wait in March 2026.
