The Daily Star Ireland
The road to the 2026 World Championship heats up on September 6th as Ireland hosts Hungary in Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. Both nations enter this Group F clash with plenty to prove—Ireland aiming to end more than two decades of World Cup exile, while Hungary seeks to reestablish its reputation as one of Europe’s most resilient competitors.
Ireland’s Push for a Breakthrough
Guided by experienced manager Heimir Hallgrímsson, Ireland has shown signs of turning a corner. The Icelandic coach, who previously led Iceland to historic success at Euro 2016 and guided Jamaica through CONCACAF challenges, has instilled discipline and belief in his Irish squad. Four wins from their last nine fixtures—including a double triumph over Bulgaria in the Nations League playoffs—have built momentum and restored hope among fans.
Defensively, Ireland will rely heavily on Brentford’s Nathan Collins, who now wears the captain’s armband in Seamus Coleman’s absence. Behind him, Caoimhin Kelleher, fresh off his move from Liverpool to Brentford, provides security in goal. Their chemistry could prove vital against Hungary’s creative threat. Ireland also takes confidence from a 2-1 friendly victory against Hungary earlier this year, a result that gives them both a psychological edge and tactical insight into their opponents.
Hungary’s Continental Ambitions
Hungary, managed by Marco Rossi, approaches the qualifiers with cautious optimism. Drawn into a challenging group that also includes heavyweights like Portugal and Denmark, the Magyars know consistency will be key. Rossi, who has guided Hungary through tough European campaigns before, has built a side that mixes grit with flair.
Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai headlines the team, providing midfield dynamism and leadership. Alongside him, rising left-back Milos Kerkez and seasoned figures like Ádám Szalai add balance and experience. Their recent Nations League performance, holding Germany to a draw, highlighted their ability to frustrate top-tier opponents. Against Ireland, Hungary will look to use compact defending, quick transitions, and set-piece precision to make their mark.
What to Expect
This encounter promises to be tightly contested. Ireland will lean on the energy of their home crowd and Hallgrímsson’s tactical setup, pressing with intensity while seeking moments of individual brilliance from forwards like Evan Ferguson or Chiedozie Ogbene. Hungary’s counter-attacking ability, however, ensures the Irish defense cannot afford lapses in concentration.
A likely scenario sees Ireland edging the contest through sheer determination and momentum. A 2-1 outcome feels realistic, with Collins marshalling the backline, Kelleher pulling off key saves, and a late strike sealing the win for the hosts. Still, Hungary’s resilience makes them a dangerous opponent, and any slip could shift the balance.
Prediction
Ireland have been formidable at home, winning 17 of their last 21 competitive matches in Dublin and outscoring opponents by a staggering 54–5 across those fixtures. Hungary, meanwhile, have struggled on their travels, registering just one win in their last nine away qualifiers.
Final Prediction: Ireland 2 – 0 Hungary
Ireland’s hunger, home advantage, and defensive strength could see them begin their World Cup qualifying campaign in style, while Hungary may need to regroup for later battles in the group.
