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World Cup Qualification: Hungary vs Ireland
Kickoff Time: 2025-11-16 22:00 (HKT)
Source: REUTERS/HAYK BAGHDASARYAN
Hungary narrowly won 1-0 away against Armenia in their last match, and they are in good form with two wins and one draw in their recent three group stage games. Currently, Hungary sits second in the group with a record of two wins, two draws, and one loss. Hungary’s tactical approach emphasizes compact defense and quick counter-attacks, which was key to their away victory against Armenia. It’s worth noting that Hungary’s offensive firepower is second only to Portugal in the group. Their attack relies heavily on the individual abilities of Barnabas Varga, Dominik Szoboszlai, and AdAm Szalai. Among them, captain Szoboszlai is the absolute core of the team in both defense and attack; he acts as the first line of defense and also initiates attacks. Additionally, Hungary’s resilient nature is one of their inherent strengths, as demonstrated when they came from behind twice to draw level with Portugal.
Ireland pulled off a surprise 2-0 home victory against Portugal in their last match, securing back-to-back wins in the group stage. Currently, Ireland is third in the group with two wins, one draw, and two losses, trailing second-placed Hungary by just one point. This upcoming clash can be seen as a decisive battle for both teams. Most of Ireland’s players are based at English clubs, so their tactical style is primarily influenced by traditional English football. Ireland’s offensive strategy mainly relies on long balls to target men upfront, but this approach can be one-dimensional. Defensively, Ireland typically employs a packed defense, but their execution has been somewhat lacking. Furthermore, Ireland’s away form has been particularly weak; they have lost both of their away matches in the group stage so far and couldn’t even secure a win against the group’s weakest team, Armenia.
In the first leg encounter, Ireland drew 2-2 at home with Hungary. With the venues now switched, Hungary will enjoy a significant home advantage, while Ireland will be without their strongest support. Additionally, Hungary’s potent attacking power is likely to be a challenge Ireland will struggle to handle. Considering all factors, it seems reasonable to back Hungary to secure all three points on home turf.
Hungary‘s Last 5 Games: WDWLD
25-11-14 Armenia 0-1 Hungary
25-10-15 Portugal 2-2 Hungary
25-10-12 Hungary 2-0 Armenia
25-09-10 Hungary 2-3 Portugal
25-09-07 Ireland 2-2 Hungary
Ireland’s Last 5 Games: WWLLD
25-11-08 Ireland 2-0 Portugal
25-10-15 Ireland 1-0 Armenia
25-10-12 Portugal 1-0 Ireland
25-09-10 Armenia 2-1 Ireland
25-09-07 Ireland 2-2 Hungary
Head-To-Head Record
25-09-07 Ireland 2-2 Hungary
24-06-05 Ireland 2-1 Hungary
21-06-09 Hungary 0-0 Ireland
12-06-05 Hungary 0-0 Irealnd
Prediction: Hungary to win