Welcome to ExtraTips: Hungary vs Ireland – World Cup Qualifier Match Preview

Hungary hosts Ireland this Sunday at Puskás Aréna in a key World Cup qualifier. Kick-off is at 14:00, and both sides are battling for spots in the group. Hungary comes in as slight favorites, but Ireland’s recent results show they won’t go down easily.

Match details and standings

  • Hungary: 2nd in UEFA Group, 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss, 8 points.
  • Ireland: 3rd in UEFA Group, 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses, 7 points.

Betting odds

  • Hungary to win: 1.95
  • Draw: 3.50
  • Ireland to win: 4.00

Recent history & form

The last time these two met (Sept 2025) it ended 2-2, full of late drama. Over the last five head-to-heads, they’ve split results evenly, but neither side has dominated.
Recent home form for Hungary: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss.
Recent away form for Ireland: 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses.

Key strengths & weaknesses

Hungary’s attacking spark comes from Varga and Szoboszlai, who drive most of their chances. Ireland rely on Ferguson and Parrott up front but sometimes lack goals. Both sides have shown defensive lapses, with Hungary conceding 1.8 goals a match.

Storylines

  • A must-win for Ireland could mean they attack early—it’s all or nothing.
  • Hungary’s set-piece quality, led by Szoboszlai, may cause trouble for Ireland’s defense.
  • Both sets of fans will make plenty of noise; home advantage could count a lot here.

Expect a tense, open encounter packed with chances.