Hungary didn’t do their part, as they suffered a late, 2-3 loss to Ireland. Meanwhile, Portugal beat Armenia comfortably. This means Hungary ended in third place of Group F. Portugal ended as leaders with 13 points, followed by Ireland with 10 (securing a spot in the playoffs for a World Cup berth), Hungary with eight points, and Armenia in last place with only three points.

The dream is over. Hungary did not do enough to even qualify to the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers Playoffs. This is a second round contested between 16 teams but only four will end up qualifying.

Hungary lost to Ireland quite unfairly

Even if the final score doesn’t show it, Hungary were clearly the superior side in the Puskas Arena. The 2-3 score doesn’t do justice, as Hungary dominated Ireland in shots, shots on target, ball possession, corners, and pretty much every offensive statistic there is. However, the Irish had more power of will in the latter minutes to get an incredible comeback with goals at the 80th and 96th minute.

The team knew it needed to win and it went out there to make sure that if Portugal slipped, it would’ve done what was needed. Still, it wasn’t enough as Ireland’s Troy Parrott scored a hat trick to get Ireland the win. Now, Hungary said goodbye to the 2026 World Cup.

Hungary had a very good squad to rely on

This is a very good squad. While it’s not a juggernaut, nor is it star-studded, Hungary have a good collection of guys that make this a very well-rounded team. Still, the lack of focus in the dying minutes of the game cost them.

Dominik Szoboszlai is one of the best box-to-box midfielders in the world right now. The Liverpool star is capable to not only cut passing lanes, but also create goalscoring oppportunities. He is the one guy capable of doing it all. However, the role players didn’t do much to help him in the second half of the game, and that ended Hungary’s 2026 World Cup dreams.

Ireland came into the game with 7 points and a +1 goal differential, while Hungary held the slight upper hand with 8 points and a +2 goal differential. Thus, Ireland’s hopes lied entirely on a victory during their visit to the Pearl of the Danube. It was stressful, but in the end Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side pushed through to walk away with a 3-2 win.

After securing the win in Hungary—along with Portugal’s thrashing of Armenia—Ireland clinched the second place in the group standings. That means Ireland are now through to the UEFA Play-Off Round where 16 teams will be competing for the final four tickets to the 2026 World Cup.

Thus, Ireland’s win didn’t automatically qualify them for the World Cup, per se, but it did push them through to the next stage, where they will compete for a place in the biggest tournament in international soccer. For some countries, reaching the Play-Off isn’t cause for celebration, but given how things looked coming into the final matchday, it’s the best-case scenario for Ireland.

Group standings: Portugal first, Ireland second

Following yet another magical night from Troy Parrott and the Boys in Green, Ireland clinched the second place in Group F, keeping their 2026 World Cup dream alive and well as they make it to the Play-Off Round.

• Portugal 13 points
• Ireland 10 points
• Hungary 8 points
• Armenia 3 points

UEFA Play-Off Round

Thanks to Parrott’s hat trick against Hungary — which included an unforgettable 96th minute game-winner — fans in the Emerald Isle can keep dreaming about making the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the Boys in Green are still a long way from making the trans-Atlantic journey to North America. First, they will have to make it past other top countries in Europe.

16 national teams will compete in the UEFA Play-Off. The 12 sides that finished second in their groups will be joined by the four best teams in the Nations League ranking — those that didn’t qualify for the World Cup or the play-offs. The 16 teams will be split into four groups of four. They will face off in a single-leg semi-final before competing in a final. The four winners of each final will advance to the World Cup. Ireland will have a clear picture of who they’ll be up against on November 20, when the groups will be drawn.

Hungary have a good opportunity to compete in a World Cup for the first time since 1986. They are currently second in the table with eight points, trailing Portugal’s 10 points. Hungary still have a pathway to both direct qualification and the playoffs.

Ireland, meanwhile, delivered a shocking result on the last matchday by defeating Portugal 2-0, denying Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates the chance to secure their World Cup ticket early.

That major home victory kept alive Ireland’s hopes of reaching a World Cup for the first time since 2002. They currently sit third in the table with seven points, holding possibilities for the playoffs and even an outside chance at direct qualification.

What happens if Hungary beat Ireland?

If Hungary defeat Ireland, the outcome of the match between Portugal and Armenia will determine Hungary’s final position in the table. With a win, Hungary will need a defeat for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates to secure direct qualification, while a Portugal victory would see Hungary settle with a playoff spot.

What happens if Hungary and Ireland tie?

If the match ends in a draw, Hungary will secure second spot in Group F and therefore a place in the playoffs, regardless of the result in the Portugal vs Armenia match.

What happens if Hungary lose to Ireland?

If Ireland manage to secure the victory on the road, then Hungary will be mathematically eliminated from the 2026 World Cup race. Ireland would then secure second place in the table, and if Portugal lose to Armenia, Ireland could even claim first place and direct qualification if they manage to surpass Portugal on goal differential.

Ronaldo spoke out for the first time after the match, addressing the disappointment and adding tension to Portugal’s campaign. The Portuguese star took to social media, writing, “We are getting closer to our goal! Let’s go, Portugal!”

The draw leaves Portugal waiting as they continue their push for World Cup qualification, highlighting the stakes for Ronaldo and his teammates in the remaining matches.

Portugal fell behind early in the match, but the response was immediate. The Hungarian defense held strong until Cristiano Ronaldo leveled the score in the 22nd minute, finishing off a precise pass from Nelson Semedo. Before halftime, the Portuguese captain struck again: in the 45+3’ minute, Nuno Mendes delivered a perfect cross from the left wing, and CR7, with his trademark finishing instinct, converted to put Portugal ahead 2-1. But a last-minute goal delays the qualification.

Ronaldo and a historic record during the match

Beyond the draw, Cristiano Ronaldo left his mark: his brace brought him to 41 goals in World Cup qualifiers and 948 official career goals, extending his record as the all-time top scorer in qualifiers. However, the match highlighted Portugal’s reliance on their captain to remain competitive, while defensive lapses allowed Hungary to snatch a valuable away point.

The draw keeps Portugal at the top of Group F but underscores the urgency of improving defensive solidity. CR7’s performance confirms his leadership, yet the team still needs greater collective consistency to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

How Group F stands

With this draw, Portugal now have 10 points in Group F, ahead of Hungary with 5 points, but six points remain up for grabs in the final two matchdays. Ireland sit with 4 points, while Armenia have 3, leaving the final spots for World Cup qualification still very much open.

[Watch Portugal vs Hungary online in the US on Fubo PPV]

Portugal continues to dominate its World Cup qualifying group, collecting a perfect nine points from their first three matches after grinding out a hard-fought win over Ireland last time out.

Cristiano Ronaldo and his squad understand there’s no room for complacency as they prepare for one of their toughest tests yet against Hungary, a team eager to keep its own World Cup hopes alive by extending its winning streak.

When will the Portugal vs Hungary match be played?

Portugal play against Hungary this Tuesday, October 14, for Matchday 4 of the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. The match is set to kick off at 2:45 PM (ET).

Portugal vs Hungary: Time by State in the USA

ET: 2:45 PM
CT: 1:45 PM
MT: 12:45 PM
PT: 11:45 AM

How to watch Portugal vs Hungary in the USA

The UEFA World Cup Qualifiers matchup between Portugal and Hungary will be available for viewers in the USA via Fubo (get the game for $9.99). Other options: ViX.

Ronaldo, 40 years old, continues defying age. His presence in Portugal’s squad was confirmed earlier this month, cementing his role in their campaign. Though not every lineup is set in stone, Portugal approach this match knowing a win might clinch their spot at the World Cup.

Still, soccer rarely follows predictions perfectly. Tactical shifts, fitness, or late decisions by coach Roberto Martinez could alter plans. But all signs suggest Ronaldo is in the mix for tonight’s match.

Will Ronaldo start or play today?

Cristiano Ronaldo is confirmed to start for Portugal today vs. Hungary. The veteran striker is fully fit and remains a key figure in Roberto Martinez’s starting XI, both tactically and emotionally. His leadership and experience will be vital in a match that could secure Portugal’s direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

What this match means beyond Ronaldo

This is more than a star’s return. If Portugal win today, they could mathematically qualify for the 2026 World Cup, sealing their dominance in Group F. Hungary, meanwhile, will fight for survival, needing to turn a rugged campaign around.

For Ronaldo, this could be one of his final qualifying matches — and possibly his last in a home Portugal jersey, a moment filled with symbolism for both fans and teammates.

Portugal confirmed lineup vs Hungary

With qualification within reach, Portugal have named a strong starting XI led by their veteran captain. The confirmed lineup features Diogo Costa; Nelson Semedo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Ruben Neves; Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto; and Cristiano Ronaldo up front.

[Watch Hungary vs Portugal online in the US on Fubo]

Group F heats up with a clash that could shape the race for the top spots as Portugal and Hungary square off. Portugal opened qualifying with a dominant 5-0 win over Armenia, once again proving their contender status behind Cristiano Ronaldo and a stacked supporting cast.

Hungary, on the other hand, let a 2-0 lead slip in a frustrating 2-2 draw with Ireland, leaving them eager to rebound against the group’s most dangerous opponent. This matchup has all the makings of a pivotal showdown that fans won’t want to miss.

When will the Hungary vs Portugal match be played?

Hungary take on Portugal this Tuesday, September 9, for Matchday 2 of the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. The match is set to kick off at 2:45 PM (ET).

Hungary vs Portugal: Time by State in the USA

ET: 2:45 PM
CT: 1:45 PM
MT: 12:45 PM
PT: 11:45 AM

How to watch Hungary vs Portugal in the USA

The UEFA World Cup Qualifiers matchup between Hungary and Portugal will be available for viewers in the USA via Fubo. Other options: Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, ViX.

Cristiano Ronaldo, free from recent injury concerns, will start for Portugal, showcasing peak form. Head coach Roberto Martinez has decided to include him in the lineup against Hungary, recognizing his continued importance to the team’s strategy. Martinez has revitalized the veteran by focusing his energy on offense and relieving him of defensive duties. This strategic shift has already paid off, with the veteran star scoring a brace against Armenia.

Cristiano’s success is not solely his merit; it’s also Roberto Martinez’s knack for crafting an ideal environment for the veteran. Unlike before, the team now boasts a robust defense, where stars like Goncalo Inacio and Ruben Dias shine alongside Joao Neves and Vitinha, who provide crucial balance. Additionally, the skill of Joao Felix and the speed of Pedro Neto greatly enhance Ronaldo’s surroundings, minimizing his defensive responsibilities.

Portugal lineup vs Hungary

Although Portugal impressed in their last game, head coach Roberto Martinez has still make slight changes to the starting lineup. They have no injuries or suspensions to worry about, but Bernardo Silva and Ruben Neves will return to the team. Aside from that, they might stick with a similar squad for their second 2026 UEFA World Cup Qualifiers game.

With this in mind, Roberto Martinez’s Portugal will lineup as follows against Hungary: Diogo Costa; Joao Neves, Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Ruben Neves; Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva; Cristiano Ronaldo.

Hungary lineup vs Portugal

Hungary, unlike Portugal, must adjust their starting lineup due to Roland Sallai’s red card in the previous game. Despite these change, the team could largely remain the same, as it has developed a solid offensive rhythm with Bendeguz Bolla leading the attack.

Considering this, Marco Rossi’s Hungary will lineup like this against Portugal: Denes Dibusz; Loic Nego, Willi Orban, Attila Szalai, Milos Kerkez; Callum Styles; Bendeguz Bolla, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alex Toth, Zsolt Nagy; Barnabas Varga.

[Watch Hungary vs Turkey live in the USA for FREE on Fubo]

Turkey delivered a dominant performance at home, securing a crucial 3-1 victory that puts them in a strong position heading into the second leg in Budapest. While the win doesn’t guarantee advancement, it certainly boosts their chances.

Hungary now face the tough task of overcoming a two-goal deficit, knowing they’ll need a much stronger effort than their performance in the first leg. With nothing to lose, Hungary will come out fighting, making it imperative for Turkey to stay sharp and cautious.

When will the Hungary vs Turkey match be played?

Hungary play against Turkey in the second leg 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation playoffs this Sunday, March 23. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM (ET).

Hungary vs Turkey: Time by State in the USA

ET: 1:00 PM

CT: 12:00 PM

MT: 11:00 PM

PT: 10:00 PM

How to watch Hungary vs Turkey in the USA

Watch this 2024-25 UEFA Nations League showdown between Hungary and Turkey live in the USA on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, ViX.

[Watch Turkey vs Hungary live in the USA for FREE on Fubo]

Turkey and Hungary face off in a high-stakes battle between two evenly matched rivals. Turkey saw their hopes of direct promotion to League A slip away after a shocking loss to Montenegro on the final Matchday, missing a golden opportunity to secure qualification.

On the other side, Hungary endured a brutal group stage, suffering heavy defeats to Germany (5-0) and the Netherlands (4-0). While they avoided relegation, they now must win this series to retain their place in League A.

When will the Turkey vs Hungary match be played?

Turkey take on Hungary in the first leg 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation playoffs this Thursday, March 20. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM (ET).

Turkey vs Hungary: Time by State in the USA

ET: 1:00 PM

CT: 12:00 PM

MT: 11:00 AM

PT: 10:00 AM

How to watch Turkey vs Hungary in the USA

Watch this 2024-25 UEFA Nations League showdown between Turkey and Hungary live in the USA on Fubo (free trial). Other options: ViX, Fox Sports 2.

[Watch Hungary vs Germany online for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

Germany’s dominant 7-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina secured their top spot in Group 3 of League A with one matchday remaining in the group stage. With the victory, Germany have now guaranteed first place, while Bosnia’s struggles continued.

Hungary, who were decisively beaten 4-0 by the Netherlands, cannot improve beyond third place, regardless of their result against Germany. However, the upcoming match presents Hungary with a valuable opportunity to measure their strength against one of Europe’s elite teams.

When will the Hungary vs Germany match be played?

Hungary play against Germany in a Matchday 6 showdown in the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League this Tuesday, November 19. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:45 PM (ET).

Hungary vs Germany: Time by State in the USA

ET: 2:45 PM

CT: 1:45 PM

MT: 12:45 PM

PT: 11:45 AM

How to watch Hungary vs Germany in the USA

Watch this 2024-25 UEFA Nations League showdown between Hungary and Germany live in the USA on Fubo, where you can start with a free trial. Additional viewing options include Tubi, ViX.