Ireland Aims for World Cup Play-Off Spot Against Hungary

Ireland’s national football team is set to face Hungary this afternoon in a critical World Cup qualifier that could secure a play-off spot for the Boys in Green. A victory against Hungary at the Puskás Arena in Budapest will guarantee Ireland at least a place in the play-offs for the upcoming tournament. The match kicks off at 14:00 GMT and is broadcast live on RTÉ 2, with pre-match coverage starting at 13:00 GMT.

Ireland’s hopes were reignited following an impressive 2-0 victory at home against Portugal on November 16, 2023. That match not only marked a crucial win but also saw Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo receive a red card, further shifting the momentum in Ireland’s favor. Had Ireland lost that game, their chances of qualifying for next year’s World Cup would have effectively ended.

Goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher expressed the team’s focus on the upcoming game despite the boost from the win over Portugal. “We enjoyed the victory, obviously, but pretty soon after the game, attention turned towards this game and how important this is, so all that matters is Sunday,” he stated during a pre-match press conference. Kelleher emphasized that the team is ready and prepared for the challenge ahead.

While Ireland maintains a slim chance to qualify as group winners, the scenario is unlikely. To achieve that, Ireland would need to defeat Hungary and hope for an upset from Armenia against Portugal in Porto. If both Ireland and Portugal finish with the same points, Ireland would require a five-goal advantage on goal difference. However, Armenia has struggled in the qualifying rounds, winning only one match, meaning the likelihood of this scenario unfolding is low.

Realistically, Ireland’s best option is to secure a second-place finish in the group, which would allow them to enter the play-offs. A draw against Hungary will not suffice; only a win will guarantee at least a play-off spot. Historically, Ireland has a strong record against Hungary, remaining undefeated in their last seven encounters since 1989, with three wins and four draws.

Hungary, a two-time World Cup finalist, has experienced a resurgence in recent years, qualifying for the European Championships after missing ten consecutive tournaments. Their recent form includes three wins and five losses in their last eleven matches since November 2024. In the current qualifying campaign, Hungary has only suffered one defeat, losing 3-2 to Portugal, and has drawn twice against both Portugal and Ireland.

Ireland’s squad will be without Evan Ferguson, who is sidelined due to injury, while Ryan Manning returns from suspension. Both teams are aware that the stakes are high, with the winner set to secure at least a play-off position. Paddy Power has made Hungary the slight favorites at 19/20, while Ireland’s chances are listed at 3/1, and the draw is priced at 9/4.

As the match approaches, anticipation builds for what could be a decisive moment in Ireland’s World Cup qualifying journey. With the team riding high from their recent success, the Boys in Green will look to deliver a performance that keeps their World Cup dreams alive.