Sport

The Art of Analyzing Football Matches: Tips for True Fans

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Football is more than just a sport; it’s a global cultural phenomenon. From bustling stadiums filled with roaring fans to millions glued to their screens, the excitement of football knows no boundaries. It’s a game of strategy, passion, and skill, and for many fans, the beauty of football extends beyond simply watching matches. For those who dive deeper, analyzing team strategies, player performances, and match dynamics transforms the experience into a richly rewarding journey.

In this article, we’ll explore how understanding the nuances of football can enhance your love for the game. From tactical insights to ways you can stay updated on the sport, we’ll delve into how match analysis makes every goal, pass, and save even more thrilling.

Understanding the Game Beyond the Surface

Football matches are often perceived as simple battles where two teams compete to score goals. However, beneath the surface lies a game of intricate tactics, psychological battles, and finely tuned teamwork. To fully appreciate football, it’s important to understand these underlying elements.

Team Formations and Strategies
Team formations, such as the classic 4-4-2 or the innovative 3-4-3, dictate how a team positions itself on the field. These formations aren’t chosen randomly; they are carefully designed to exploit the opposition’s weaknesses or amplify a team’s strengths. For example, a 4-3-3 setup focuses on an aggressive attacking style, while a 5-3-2 formation provides a more defensive approach.
Player Roles and Contributions
Every player on the pitch has a specific role, whether it’s a goalkeeper safeguarding the net, a forward aiming for goals, or a midfielder orchestrating the game. Understanding these roles can deepen your appreciation for individual brilliance and teamwork.
Set Pieces and Game-Changing Moments
Set pieces, such as corners and free kicks, are moments where strategy takes center stage. Teams often practice these situations meticulously, and the outcomes can significantly influence the result of a match.

By exploring these aspects, fans can elevate their understanding of football and enjoy a richer viewing experience.

How Match Analysis Enhances Your Understanding

For true enthusiasts, analyzing football matches provides an avenue to engage with the game on a deeper level. Platforms like ставки по футболу help fans access detailed match schedules, team statistics, and performance reviews. Here are some reasons why analyzing matches is an integral part of football culture:

Uncovering Team Trends
A team’s recent performances can reveal trends that predict how they might play in upcoming matches. Whether it’s a winning streak or a struggle to maintain form, these patterns offer valuable insights.
Understanding Tactical Adjustments
Coaches often make mid-game adjustments that can shift the momentum of a match. Observing these tactical shifts not only makes the game more engaging but also showcases the depth of strategic thinking in football.
Spotting Star Performances
Analyzing player contributions, such as a defender’s tackles or a forward’s goal-scoring ability, brings individual brilliance into focus. It’s also a great way to discover emerging talents and appreciate the efforts of underrated players.

Key Factors That Shape Football Matches

To truly grasp the intricacies of football, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence the outcome of matches. Below are some of the key elements that shape the game:

Team Chemistry and Cohesion
A team’s ability to work together often determines its success. Even star-studded squads can struggle if players lack chemistry or fail to communicate effectively.
Opposition Strength
The quality of the opposing team plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of a match. Stronger teams may dominate possession, while underdogs might rely on counterattacks.
Injury and Fitness Levels
Injuries to key players or fatigue from a packed schedule can disrupt a team’s plans. Understanding these factors helps fans set realistic expectations for their favorite teams.
Environmental and External Factors
Weather conditions, altitude, and home-field advantage can significantly influence performance. Teams playing in unfamiliar environments may need time to adapt, which can impact the flow of the game.

How to Stay Updated with the World of Football

With countless leagues and tournaments happening worldwide, keeping up with football can be a challenge. Fortunately, modern platforms offer tools to help fans stay informed. For example, BetBoom is a trusted platform for exploring the vast world of football. It provides access to match schedules, detailed team statistics, and real-time updates for fans eager to stay connected to their favorite sport.

Here’s how you can use such platforms to enrich your football experience:

Access Comprehensive Match Previews
Before the game, dive into detailed previews that analyze team form, head-to-head records, and key player matchups.
Follow Real-Time Match Updates
Platforms with live updates ensure you don’t miss any crucial moments, whether it’s a last-minute goal or a game-changing red card.
Explore Post-Match Insights
After the game, review performance statistics, player ratings, and expert analysis to better understand the result.

By using these tools, fans can immerse themselves fully in the world of football, making every match more meaningful and engaging.

The Joy of Supporting Your Favorite Team

For many fans, supporting a football team is more than just a pastime—it’s a way of life. The highs of victory and the heartbreak of defeat create emotional connections that transcend the game itself. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of a club or rooting for your national team in international tournaments, the joy of football lies in its ability to bring people together.

Building Community Through Football
Football unites fans from all walks of life. Watching matches with friends, family, or even strangers at a stadium or local pub fosters a sense of community and shared passion.
Celebrating Milestones and Achievements
Moments like winning a league title or qualifying for a major tournament create memories that last a lifetime. These milestones are celebrated by fans with unparalleled enthusiasm.
Learning Life Lessons Through Sport
Football teaches valuable lessons about teamwork, resilience, and the importance of hard work. It’s a sport that inspires fans to carry these lessons into their everyday lives.

Responsible Engagement with Football

While football is an exhilarating sport to follow, it’s essential to engage with it responsibly. Fans should focus on celebrating the beauty of the game, learning from its intricacies, and enjoying the camaraderie it fosters.

Platforms like BetBoom emphasize responsible practices, offering users a secure environment to explore their passion for sports. With its commitment to transparency and user protection, BetBoom ensures that fans can enjoy football without compromising their safety or personal data.

Conclusion

Football is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of skill, strategy, and human connection. For fans, analyzing matches and understanding the finer details of the sport adds a new dimension to their love for football. As you continue to explore the world of football, remember that the true joy lies in the journey—the thrill of a perfectly executed goal, the excitement of a dramatic comeback, and the unbreakable bond shared by fans around the globe.

Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.

January 20, 2025

The 5 best places for skiing in Hungary

Let’s face it, Hungary might not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of snow-covered slopes and winter sports. But don’t let that fool you—there are hidden gems here that can delight skiing enthusiasts of all levels. If you’re looking for an unexpected winter getaway, skiing in Hungary offers a unique blend of charm, affordability, and adventure. Here are five of the most popular destinations for skiing in Hungary!

Eplény

For those who find short ski runs frustrating, Eplény is the ideal destination for skiing in Hungary. Home to the country’s longest non-stop slope, it offers well-maintained pistes, quality rental equipment, and an on-site ski service. It’s an absolute favourite with free parking, snow cannons ensuring an extended season, and illuminated evening slopes. Don’t miss the sun terrace, which is perfect for soaking up the sunshine on clear days!

Mátraszentistván

Set amidst stunning forested surroundings, the Mátraszentistván Ski Park is a top choice for skiing in Hungary. It spans nearly 10 hectares and caters to all skill levels with six varied pistes, from gentle runs to steeper challenges. Families will appreciate the ski school and snow slide park for children, while advanced technology ensures snowmaking and night lighting for an extended and enjoyable experience. With panoramic views and a range of modern services, this ski park truly has something for everyone.

Kékestető

Kékestető offers the closest experience to Alpine skiing in Hungary, featuring the country’s highest peak and the second-longest downhill run. With nine slopes catering to all skill levels—from training slopes to challenging black runs—it’s a versatile destination. Visitors can enjoy après-ski dining in cosy Alpine-style bars, plentiful accommodations, and unique activities like snowmobile tours. Night-time skiing adds to the charm, making Kékestető a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.

Bánkút

Nestled in the stunning Bükk National Park, Bánkút Ski Club is a prime destination for skiing in Hungary. With eight diverse slopes ranging from beginner to expert levels, it offers something for everyone, including a sledding run for families. The club provides ski instruction, equipment rental, and night skiing with floodlights. For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Bánkút is considered the best spot in the country, surrounded by picturesque hiking trails.

Zemplén

For weather-proof skiing in Hungary, head to Zemplén Adventure Park, one of the largest adventure parks in the country. Situated on Magas Hill, it boasts the nation’s longest and widest artificial track, perfect for year-round skiing. Alongside its three slopes, including a plastic one, visitors can enjoy the ice-skating rink or explore Hungary’s only ski museum. It’s a unique destination that combines winter sports with year-round adventure.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com

January 18, 2025

How Szoboszlai became Liverpool’s most important midfielder

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In any football setup, the midfield position comes with so much responsibility that a slip-up in this section results in both offensive and defensive losses. This effect is so much so that bookies often base their odds on the strength of the midfield. For example, in Hungary, punters review midfield sessions to determine the wagers they should make on the sites listed on sportfogadooldalak.net. They are not wrong. Midfielders control the game, which makes them some of the most important players in any game – we look at Dominik Szoboszlai in this regard as we uncover how he came to be the top dog in this sphere.

What Makes Szoboszlai So Important to Liverpool?

Standing at 1.87 meters, Dominik Szoboszlai, a Hungarian player, ranks as one of the best central midfielders that the world has ever seen. At only 24, he has already made a mark in the football world, having started out at RB Leipzig, where he shone so much in his prowess that Liverpool could not help but scoop him up when the chance presented itself.

But what makes him so special?

Versatility.

While many players only excel in one position, Szoboszlai can work across the entire midfield. So, it makes it easy for the team to fill in existing gaps so that other players can focus on what they do best.

What do the stats show?

In his 17 matches in the Premier League, he has scored 2 goals and made 2 assists.
In his 6 matches with the UEFA Champions League, he has scored one goal and made one assist.

These are just stats from the 2025-2025 season, but it’s clear that he’s in it to win it. After all, in his career lifetime, he has played in 328 matches, scoring 80 goals and making 64 assists.

Consistency.

Some players are unable to keep up with the high pressures that come with playing at the top of the league. But that’s not the case for Szoboszlai. Whether the team is facing defeat or having a successful streak, he keeps up his pace.

So consistent is he that he has made the following contributions in his career:

He won the goal of the month during Liverpool’s game against Leicester City.
He was instrumental in Liverpool winning the Carabao Cup.
He was Standard Chartered Player of the Month in August 2023.

His ability to keep up his performance over the seasons is quite inspiring as the team knows that it can count on him even when the stakes are high.

Leadership.

Some players are great at following instructions, others are good at giving them, while others can do both. Szoboszlai is in the latter category. When he’s not following the tactical gameplay at Liverpool, he’s captaining the Hungary National team. This ability to lead also informs his personality as a player, as he can respect leadership and knows how to perform under pressure. And as any midfielder will tell you, playing in the midfield is like being in the hot seat.

This combination of skills makes him one of the most valuable players in Liverpool, which explains why he gets to play in many games.

Just How Valuable is Szoboszlai?

In the football industry, a player’s value often comes down to the numbers. So, what are they in this case?

The transfer deal. Szoboszlai previously played for RB Leipzig. But when Liverpool’s management saw just how talented he was, they swooped in with a €70 million, which is the fourth-most expensive signing that the team has ever had.
The contract specifics. Szoboszlai joined Liverpool on 2^nd July 2023 and will be with the team up to 30^th June, 2028. In these five years, he is subject to a weekly salary of £150,000 as well as bonuses, where applicable.

In his time with Liverpool, his performance has remained consistent, resulting in the team’s overall positive trend. As such, his market value has gone up, and now sits at €75 million. As he continues to prove just how talented he is, predictions are rife that he could soon be one of the most expensive signings in the next transfer window.

January 15, 2025

Hungaroring to host its 40th Formula 1 race this summer

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People love living vicariously through the talented Formula 1 drivers who manage to control speeding cars as they make it through the curves – it’s an incredible experience. As such, each year, fans do their best to catch the races no matter where they are. According to the 2025 F1 calendar available on the sports news site Sportivo, the Hungaroring will host its 40th F1 race from August 1 to August 3, 2025. So, what makes this event the place to be, and what can fans expect? We have these and more details.

All Eyes on the Hungaroring Circuit.

Every year, the Hungarian Grand Prix takes place in the Hungaroring circuit near Budapest. Year after year, fans stream in, eager to witness a race that is unique in the following ways:

Length.

The typical F1 circuit averages 5 kilometers, which is the equivalent of 3.1 miles – for example, the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps measures about 7.004 km (4.352 miles). The Hungaroring comes in at 4.381 kilometers (about 2.722 miles), making it shorter than the average circuit.

But does length matter? Well, yes. The longer the circuit, the longer the lap times, and this spills over to the pit stops and tire wear, which forces F1 teams to think outside the box if they are to remain competitive and keep up with the tight deadlines. Moreover, longer circuits offer more overtaking opportunities. Shorter circuits attract fans because they offer more laps and thus allow drivers to make up for lost time, making them more competitive than their longer counterparts.

Since the Hungaroring is close to the average circuit, fans can enjoy a mix of overtaking opportunities along the straights as well as tight races in the curves, which is the ideal mix of both worlds.

Turns.

While straights allow drivers to pick up speed and achieve record speeds, watching the cars speed down straight paths can be underwhelming. That’s why the best F1 circuits usually work in a good amount of turns. On average, a circuit will have anything from 15 to 20 turns. How does this compare to the Hungaroring?

This track features 14 turns, which paves the way for tons of technical challenges. For one, drivers must know how they will control their cars while maneuvering between braking and accelerating as they approach these turns. Secondly, drivers who use these turns right can take advantage of the overtaking opportunities at these points. And, of course, there is the issue of the wear and tear of tires, especially if drivers are not thinking about tire management as they make their way through the track.

It will be quite interesting to watch as the drivers fight to win the races while managing these sharp twists and turns.

Elevation and Surface.

The Hungaroring circuit is not flat. Instead, drivers must work their way through elevations and depressions. While they are a series of gentle elevation changes, this variation can result in technical challenges, such as inconsistencies in speed and difficulty in braking.

Drivers will also have to be cognizant of the surface conditions on this track. The typical F1 circuit features asphalt on its surface, which ensures that the tires have a high level of grip, which comes in handy in maintaining the friction necessary for braking and speeding. While the Hungaroring also has an asphalt surface, it’s also quite dusty as this track is not used much during the year. As such, grip levels are likely to be lower, which can result in slipperiness and higher tire pressure.

When And Where Can You Catch the Action?

The main race will take place on 3^rd August 2025 and will feature preliminary races on the 1^st and 2^nd. Anyone who wants to be part of the event can do so as follows:

Getting a ticket for the grandstands for the views.
Booking a hotel or room in Budapest along the circuit.
Viewing the action on TV or online streaming sites.

No matter where you will be, you are sure to witness the reason why people have been coming back to this race since 1986!

January 15, 2025

Good news for Formula 1 fans: Here’s the renewed Hungaroring – PHOTOS

The Hungaroring, a staple of Formula 1 racing, is undergoing a remarkable transformation to ensure its place as a world-class circuit for the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix in August.

Hungaroring construction reaches new milestone

As Hungaroring shared in a Facebook post, following the 2024 Hungarian Grand Prix, redevelopment efforts at the Hungaroring have been in full swing, with a workforce of 620 dedicated individuals working daily to upgrade the circuit. Over the past six months, significant progress has been made, including the installation of 23,785 cubic metres of concrete and 7,604 tonnes of reinforcing steel. Large-scale earthworks around the paddock building have been completed, and construction of the third floor’s vertical structure is now underway.

The main grandstand is also advancing, with all precast reinforced concrete beams installed and nearly 50% of the grandstand elements in place. Elsewhere, 759 square metres of masonry structures have been built, and extensive electrical work has seen 22 kilometres of protective tubes and 80 kilometres of lining tubes laid, alongside 20 kilometres of power cables. With the depot area’s high current system finished and low current systems 90% complete, the circuit is on track to welcome the F1 family at its usual high standard.

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January 14, 2025

BREAKING: Olympic champion swimmer Katinka Hosszú announces retirement

Three-time Olympic champion swimmer Katinka Hosszú announced her retirement on Wednesday.

At the height of her career, Hosszú won the gold medal in the 100m backstroke, and 200m and 400m individual medley events at the Rio Olympics in 2016, setting a new world record in the latter. She capped off her outing in Rio with a silver medal in the 200m backstroke event. The 35-year-old athlete, who is also a 9-time world champion, announced her retirement on Facebook.

Related news from 2024: Swimming legend Katinka Hosszú to miss Paris Olympics 2024

January 8, 2025

How to predict MMA fight outcomes: the ultimate guide

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Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has become one of the fastest-growing sports globally, captivating millions with its dynamic matchups and unpredictable results. Promotions like the UFC and Bellator showcase high-stakes events that challenge fans to anticipate fight outcomes. Whether you’re a seasoned analyst or a casual enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the strategies and techniques for creating accurate predictions and analyzing MMA events.

Understanding Key Elements of MMA Predictions

Major MMA Promotions

To predict outcomes effectively, it’s essential to understand the leading MMA organizations and their specific nuances:

UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship): The largest and most influential promotion, known for elite fighters and globally significant events.
Bellator: Features a mix of emerging talent and seasoned veterans, often employing unique tournament formats.
ONE Championship: Blends MMA with Muay Thai and kickboxing, showcasing a diverse roster of fighters from across the globe.

Familiarizing yourself with these organizations and their fighters can provide critical context for making informed predictions.

Factors That Influence Fight Outcomes

Fighting Styles:
- Wrestlers excel in controlling opponents and dictating the pace of the fight.
- Strikers rely on precision and power to secure knockouts.
- Submission specialists aim to exploit ground exchanges to finish fights.
Analyzing how styles clash or complement each other is foundational for predicting results.
Experience and Records:
- Look beyond win-loss ratios to evaluate the quality of opponents faced.
- Consider fighters’ performances in high-pressure scenarios or against similar styles.
Recent Form:
- Momentum matters. Fighters on winning streaks or those showing improvement often have psychological and physical advantages.
- Conversely, fighters returning from injury or losses may face additional hurdles.
Venue and Location:
- Fighters competing at home may benefit from crowd support and familiarity with the environment.
- Adapting to different time zones and climates can impact performance, especially for international events.

Steps to Create Reliable MMA Predictions

Step 1: Analyze Fighter Profiles

Dive deep into a fighter’s background, including:

Skillsets: What are their primary strengths and areas for improvement?
Adaptability: Can they adjust their game plan mid-fight?
History Against Similar Opponents: How have they fared against fighters with comparable styles or attributes?

Step 2: Study Training Camps and Preparation

The quality of a fighter’s preparation often determines their performance:

Training Partners and Coaches: Elite training teams typically produce better-prepared fighters.
Camp Length: Fighters with full camps generally perform better than late replacements.
Weight Cuts: Severe weight cuts can negatively affect stamina and durability.

Step 3: Evaluate Matchup Dynamics

Compare the fighters directly to assess how they align:

Striking vs. Grappling: Who has the edge in their preferred domain?
Cardio Levels: Which fighter is more likely to sustain their performance over multiple rounds?
Defense vs. Offense: Can one fighter exploit the defensive gaps of the other?

Step 4: Consider Intangibles

Some factors are harder to quantify but can be pivotal:

Mental Toughness: Fighters known for resilience can turn the tide in challenging situations.
Fight IQ: High-level decision-making often separates champions from contenders.
Judges’ Tendencies: Certain judges may favor striking over grappling or vice versa.

Techniques for Striking Accurate Predictions

Watch Fight Tape:
- Review past fights to observe tendencies, strengths, and weaknesses.
- Identify patterns, such as susceptibility to specific strikes or techniques.
Utilize Statistical Analysis:
- Metrics like significant strikes landed, takedown accuracy, and control time provide valuable insights.
- Compare fighters’ stats to identify potential advantages or mismatches.
Factor in Momentum:
- Fighters on winning streaks often carry confidence and rhythm into their next bout.
- Consider how recent victories or losses might impact their performance.
Monitor Pre-Fight Developments:
- Keep an eye on weigh-ins, media appearances, and fighter interviews.
- Clues like visible struggles with weight cuts or psychological pressure can hint at potential outcomes.

The Role of Casino Platforms in MMA Forecasting

Online casino platforms offering sports forecasting tools, such as non-GamStop casinos via 1337 Games, can enhance your ability to predict outcomes. Many sites provide resources such as:

Fight Simulations: Platforms simulate matchups based on fighter stats and tendencies, helping you visualize potential results.
Analytical Tools: Some casinos include features that track historical data, head-to-head records, and predictive analytics.
Community Forums: Engage with other enthusiasts to exchange insights and refine your predictions.

Selecting the Right Platform

Reputable Licensing: Ensure the site is regulated by credible authorities.
Interactive Features: Look for platforms offering dynamic tools for analysis.
Resource Availability: Opt for platforms providing detailed fighter breakdowns and matchup previews.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Predictions

Ignoring Context:
- A fighter’s overall record may not reflect recent form or context-specific challenges.
Overvaluing Favorites:
- Even heavily favored fighters can lose due to unforeseen circumstances.
Neglecting External Factors:
- Consider elements like travel fatigue, injury history, and psychological pressure.

Conclusion

Creating accurate MMA predictions is both an art and a science. By analyzing fighters’ profiles, preparation, and matchup dynamics, you can develop informed forecasts that can represent an advantage during your sessions on casino sites offering sports betting options. Leveraging fight tape, statistical tools, and community insights further enhances your ability to anticipate outcomes.

Casino platforms with advanced forecasting tools offer valuable resources for enthusiasts seeking to refine their predictions. With dedication and strategic analysis, you’ll be better equipped to strike precise predictions and enjoy the excitement of MMA with newfound expertise.

January 8, 2025

Hungary to honour world’s oldest Olympic Champion Ágnes Keleti with upcoming funeral service – details

Five-time Olympic champion gymnast Ágnes Keleti, the Sportswoman of the Nation, will be laid to rest in Hungary. One of the greatest champions will be buried on her birthday, 9 January.

The funeral service will take place at the Israelite Cemetery in Kozma Street, beginning at noon. According to the obituary sent to MTI on Tuesday, Jewish tradition requires men to wear headgear. Mourners are requested to bring a flower to the service as a mark of respect.

Ágnes Keleti’s career

Born on 9 January 1920, Ágnes Keleti—who passed away on 2 January 2025—was Hungary’s most decorated female Olympic medallist, the world’s oldest living female athlete, and the world’s oldest-ever five-time Olympic gold medallist. She was a Holocaust survivor. Born into a Jewish family in Hungary, Keleti survived the Holocaust by going into hiding, adopting a false identity, and working as a maid—a testament to her resilience and determination.

In Helsinki in 1952, she won a gold medal in the artificial free (now known as the floor exercise), a silver medal in the combined team event, and bronze medals in the uneven bars and as part of the hand apparatus team. She reached the pinnacle of her career in 1956 in Melbourne, where she successfully defended her title in the floor exercise and won gold medals on the balance beam, uneven bars, and with the hand apparatus team, along with silver medals in the individual all-around and team all-around events. She became the most successful gymnast at the Games and remains the oldest woman to win an Olympic gold medal.

Ágnes Keleti earned an extraordinary 10 Olympic medals (5 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze).

Contributions to Israeli Gymnastics

After the 1956 Olympics, Keleti emigrated to Israel, where she played a significant role in developing the country’s gymnastics programme. She served as a coach and educator at the Wingate Institute, making pivotal contributions to nurturing future athletes.

Ágnes Keleti is honoured by the Hungarian Olympic Committee, the Israeli Olympic Committee, the Municipality of Budapest, the Municipality of Újpest, the Hungarian Gymnastics Federation, and the Újpest Gymnastics Club as one of their own.

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Tragedy: Ágnes Keleti, the world’s oldest Olympic champion, passes away at 103
World’s oldest ever Olympic champion, Hungary’s Ágnes Keleti hospitalised in critical condition, details HERE.

January 7, 2025

Robbie Keane takes the helm as Ferencváros’ new head coach

The former Irish footballer Robbie Keane was a very successful player, but he has also won championships as a coach.

Pascal Janssen, who managed the men’s football team of 35-time champion Ferencváros from the summer of 2024, has been bought out by the group that owns one of the world’s leading football clubs. FTC asked for and received a substantial sum for the outgoing coach.

Ferencváros have announced that they have found a successor to Dutchman Pascal Jansen at the helm of their 35-time champions and 24-time cup winners, with the signing of 146-time Irish international Robbie Keane on Monday. The new head coach arrived in Budapest on Sunday evening and will leave on Tuesday to join our team at the training camp in Spain.

Robbie Keane’s player career

The former top-flight striker Keane has played for Internazionale in Italy and in the English Premier League for Coventry City, Leeds United, Tottenham, Liverpool, West Ham United and Aston Villa, as well as Scotland’s Celtic, Los Angeles Galaxy in the US and Atlético Kolkata in India. The 44-year-old has scored more than 320 goals in 730 club matches, won the English Football League Cup with Tottenham and is a three-time MLS champion with LA Galaxy. He has scored 68 goals for the national team, making him the all-time goalscoring record holder for the national team, and played for the Republic of Ireland at the 2002 World Cup and the 2012 and 2016 European Championships. The former footballer has made 146 appearances for the Republic of Ireland national team.

Manager career

Keane made his coaching debut as player-manager of ATK India in March 2018 and joined the Republic of Ireland national team in November as assistant coach to national captain Mick McCarthy. Since June 2019, he has worked alongside former team-mate Jonathan Woodgate as assistant coach of Middlesbrough’s EFL Championship side. After leaving Middlesbrough following the outbreak of the pandemic, he completed his UEFA coaching qualification and was awarded the UEFA Pro Licence in 2020.

In the spring of 2023, he joined Sam Allardyce’s staff at Leeds United, but failed to keep the club in the Premier League and left to take up his first head coaching post as manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel. In the 2023-2024 season, he won the league and the Toto Cup (the local League Cup) with Maccabi. His team played in the UEFA European Conference League, where they won their group and reached the last 16, where they were stopped by Greece’s Olympiakos – who they also beat. Maccabi won 4-1 in Piraeus, but in the return leg at a neutral venue – Bačka Topola – the Greeks won by the same margin, scoring two more goals in extra time to progress and later claim the trophy.

Keane left Maccabi after one season and has been without a club since the summer.

Will the world’s longest-living Olympic Champion, Ágnes Keleti, be buried in Israel?

Israeli media outlets wrote that the world’s longest-living Olympic Champion, Ágnes Keleti, should be buried in Israel since she had Israeli citizenship. Here’s how the champion’s family decided about her burial.

Ágnes Keleti passed away after a short disease

Ágnes Keleti, the world’s longest-living Olympic Champion passed away on 1 January in Budapest’s Honvédkórház (military hospital). Keleti was hospitalised after Christmas after her state became critical. Rafael Bíró-Keleti, the younger son of the Hungarian Olympic champion, told Hungarian media then that she suffered from pneumonia and her condition worsened on Christmas Day. Therefore, she was taken to the military hospital of Budapest.

Phlegm blocked her trachea, so even doctors gave her little chance of surviving. Thankfully, the medical team managed to suck the phlegm. Therefore, she could breathe and even smile again. Mr Bíró-Keleti said the entire family hoped then that they would be able to celebrate the Olympic champions’s 104th birthday on 9 January together. Sorrowfully, the outstanding athlete’s body gave up the struggle, and she passed away on 1 January.

ágnes keleti oldest olympic champion passes away — Ágnes Keleti on 26 April 2024. Photo: MTI/Hegedüs Róbert

Barely survived the Holocaust

Keleti, born Klein, began her athletic journey in 1937, and, by 1940, she won the first national championship. Then, her career was halted by the discriminatory laws of Hungary, and she could barely survive the Holocaust using falsified identity papers under an assumed name in Szalkszentmárton. But her father never returned from the death camps. Her mother and her sister were rescued by Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg.

After the war, she continued her sports career and earned a degree from the College of Physical Education. Between 1947 and 1956, Keleti amassed an unparalleled 46 national titles, including ten all-around championships and seven team victories. She remains the most decorated Hungarian gymnast, a testament to her unparalleled skills and dedication.

1952 and 1956 Olympics put the glory on her exceptional work

In 1954, at the World Championships in Rome, she claimed two golds, one silver and a bronze. A last-minute ankle injury prevented her from performing at the 1948 Olympics, but in 1952, she secured one gold, one silver and two bronzes. Her crowning achievement came at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where she won four gold medals (floor, balance beam, uneven bars, and team with hand apparatus) and two silvers. At 35, she became the oldest gymnast to win an Olympic gold medal, setting a record that endures to this day.

With a total of 10 Olympic medals—five gold, three silver, and two bronze—Keleti ranks as Hungary’s most decorated female Olympian and second only to fencing legend Aladár Gerevich among Hungarian athletes.

Finishing her competitive career, Keleti began teaching and training the next generations. She worked in Hungary, Israel, and briefly in Italy. Her contributions extended beyond sport; she earned numerous accolades, including the Fair Play Lifetime Achievement Award, the Prima Primissima Award, and honorary citizenship in Budapest, Újpest, and Terézváros. In 2023, a documentary titled Conquering Time by Oláh Kata celebrated her life, earning recognition from the International Sports Press Association (AIPS).

Will she be buried in Israel?

Since she was an Israeli national, Israeli media raised the issue of burying the Hungarian Olympic legend in the country. However, the family seems determined. They would like to bury her in Budapest. The date of the burial is at noon on 9 January, the exceptional athlete’s birthday, Nemzeti Sport wrote. The venue is the Budapest Jewish Cemetery on Kozma Street.

Keleti’s death marks the end of an era, leaving Charles Coste, a French cyclist and 1948 Olympic gold medalist, as the oldest living Olympic champion. Ágnes Keleti’s legacy, however, remains eternal, inspiring generations to come.

Read also:

Tragedy: Ágnes Keleti, the world’s oldest Olympic champion, passes away at 103 – read more HERE
A century of tradition at stake: Haladás 105-year legacy in peril as club appeals to PM Orbán

UPDATE

Hungary to honour world’s oldest Olympic Champion Ágnes Keleti with upcoming funeral service – details

January 3, 2025

Golf Getaway Ideas: Top Destinations for Golf Enthusiasts

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Imagine this: a brisk morning air, dew-kissed grass at your feet, and a golf ball echoing through the sky. For golf lovers, there is hardly anything as thrilling as playing golf in different courses while challenging the self in different wonderful places no matter whether you are a professional or a weekend warrioring. Nevertheless, it is a great deal of certainty that the following golf destinations will make you enjoy the game and cooperate giving you extremely good emotional experiences on the field and outside it.

St. Andrews, Scotland: The Home of Golf

None of the 18 golf holes of St. Andrews, golf’s place of origin, would disregard the last one visit. A piece of ground where it initially started, this historical location at Scotland’s east coast contains seven public courses which include the evergreen Old Course. Golf enthusiasts have the opportunity to stride in the path of legends who, in the meantime, cross the iconic Swilcan Bridge and compete the difficult Road Hole. Some of the other activities done outside include the British Golf Museum, trying traditional Scottish food, and learning more about this popular sport, the influences of it all around this little glamorous town.

Pebble Beach, California: Where Beauty Meets Challenge

It lies near the jagged shoreline, and on the Californian Monterey Peninsula, the Palm Beach is the best one for golfers. The Pebble Beach Golf Links, which was the place where it was held, but only championships, offers at the same time fabulous sea views and difficult playing conditions. Moreover, such courses as Spyglass Hill and The Links at Spanish Bay are not far away, and they are also considered some of the best golf courses in the world. When the whole day of the course is finished, people can eat, be merry and take a picnic drive on the 17-Mile Drive.

Fife, Scotland: A Golfer’s Dream Destination

Albeit St. Andrews probably has its highest luster, Kingdom of Fife is rather like the hidden treasures under the surface for golf enthusiasts. With over 50 golf courses over a distance of 30 miles, Fife has the highest concentration of golfing exuberance. Like challenging Kingsbarns or the Crail Historical Golf Society at the place where it was founded in 1786, there is an abundance of choices catering to all skill levels and styles. In addition, the region’s captivating fishing villages with the lively seafood market, and the warm hospitality of the Scottish people make it a great destination for a golf-intensive vacation.

Kiawah Island, South Carolina: Southern Charm and Championship Golf

Are you a player? Come to paradise no one else than where golf is everywhere – “Kiawah Island Golf Resort”, is located in the heart of Low Country in South Carolina. “The Ocean Course” which was redesigned by Pete Dye and has been hosting major tournaments, as well as being a tough course with strong winds and ocean views. Other four courses on the island provide good exercise and challenges to golfers of different abilities. Besides golf, you can relax at the resort’s pristine beaches, observe wildlife that is protected there, and eat southern-style dishes.

Queenstown, New Zealand: Golfing in Middle-earth

If on the other hand you are the one who likes to experience stuff that everyone else hasn’t had a chance to experience then, in this case, you are a true winner if you visit Queenstown in the South Island. Situated between sky-hugging mountains and mirror-clear waters, courses such as Jack’s Point and Millbrook Resort provide elite choice in a location out of ‘The Lord of the Rings’. Also, they have mild weather that permits for winter and summer days of extra hours of golfing. The adventurous lot may experience another great thing apart from playing golf such as bungee jumping, skiing, or tasting wine at the nearest vineyards in Central Otago.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Desert Oasis of Golf

The golfing options are some that are defining Dubai’s accelerated rise to the list of premier golf destinations. The surroundings create the luxury of the best infrastructure and at the same time, are the best places where the golf challenges have been made more interesting. The Emirates Golf Club, which is the venue for the Dubai Desert Classic, is the first club in the region to have a grass course and offers night golf with floodlights. Further, let’s delve into the courses that are making Dubai a golf haven – The Els Club designed by Ernie Els, the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates that is the host for DP World Tour Championship etc. Away from the course, golfers can catch the Madrid sequence of events that hold well-known sights, restaurants, and innovative architectural ideas.

Bandon, Oregon: Links Golf on the Pacific Coast

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, a distance away from the remote coast of Oregon, has developed into the place to be for those who are golf fanatics. At the other end the conditions are saved – five different links-style courses like the famous Pacific Dunes and Old Macdonald are Bandon’s product of the classical golf of Scotland placed next to the sea in the U.S. The non-riding policy of the resort and no one living on the course makes it a place that is very natural and which the golfer can hum to back in time. The wild beauty of the coast is a superb background for the reflection of playing times and relaxing moments.

Algarve, Portugal: Sunshine, Sea, and Spectacular Golf

Portugal’s southern coast is gaining more and more popularity among golfers from around Europe and we are sure that you would join the team of fans once you pay a visit to this stunning area. San Lorenzo Golf Course located at Ria Formosa Nature Reserve is one of the most beautiful golf courses, as it has historical settings, which enhance challenging but awe-inspiring courses. Among the best are courses such as Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. The town’s pretty structures, the tasty fish, and the great warmth, are trendsetters in the Mediterranean golf field.

Conclusion: Teeing Off on Your Next Adventure

These places are more than just a golfer’s paradise. They provide an immersive experience where they can physically be part of the history, testing their skills while having a glimpse of the most beautiful places on earth. Apart from having the chance to follow the tracks at St. Andrews and the golf haven provided by the desert in Dubai, each one of these places has undoubtedly encapsulated some amazing experiences on every golf hole.

While golfers are planning their next trip, they should know that being ahead of time is very important. Needed supplies are to be checked, but tee times should be booked in advance, and proper attire should be worn properly. For the ones who are in Australia, they may visit one of the few established golf shop Melbourne for their golfing needs before they leave.

The end made-up score is greater than the one which the players had factually obtained since they additionally told about how a great learning occurs, people get a chance to open up new friendships and they meet people from all over the world. Therefore, no matter which one is your club, no matter which away lane is for you, pack your golf bag, buy an air ticket, and start the golfing journey of a lifetime!

January 2, 2025

A century of tradition at stake: Haladás 105-year legacy in peril as club appeals to PM Orbán

For 105 years, Haladás VSE, the most important sports club in Szombathely and Vas county, was one of the most important factors in Hungarian sports life. Now it seems that there is time to save the club at the end of the year, and if the desired HUF 55 million (EUR 134,000) for the tax debt is not collected, the history of the sports club loved by many could end forever.

The Haladás Railway Sports Association (Haladás Vasutas Sport Egyesület) was founded in 1919, and since then, there have been better and worse times, but the situation has never been so hopeless.

The previous owner’s half-hearted economic activities brought the club, which has 14 sections, to the brink of bankruptcy, and it now has a debt of HUF 55 million to pay to the National Tax and Customs Office by 31 December. The municipality of Szombathely does not want to help, so now the leaders of the sections have appealed to the Prime Minister of Hungary and the fans have started a desperate fundraising campaign:

Open letter to the Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbán

We are publishing the open letter of the leaders and supporters of Haladás VSE in unchanged form:

Subject: Be the saviour of Haladás VSE – Request for help from the Prime Minister of Hungary

“Respect the past to understand the present and work for the future.” – István Széchenyi

Dear Prime Minister!

This letter is nothing more than a last call for help. It is a plea that a legacy that has shaped the lives of generations and has become a symbol of Hungary should not be lost forever.

These lines are addressed to you not only on behalf of a small community, but on behalf of an entire region. A region that is about to lose an asset that has been part of its life, its daily life and its identity for more than a century. After 105 years, the Haladás VSE, one of the greatest prides of Vas county, is on the verge of disappearing. At the delegates’ meeting on 18 December, the delegates voted unanimously that the association’s departments should continue to operate together under the name of Haladás. This shows that we are all committed to preserving the club’s heritage and its role as a community.

Haladás is not just a sports club. It is a symbol that has brought Szombathelyites together, that has given hope, that has bridged the gap between our past and our future. Haladás is the common denominator of the past, the present and the future in Vas county. In its fourteen divisions, nearly 1,000 athletes play their favourite sport – not just competitively, but with joy and community-building. Among them are footballers, wrestlers, weightlifters, archers, judo players, athletes and many other sportsmen and women who have made Hungary famous not only locally, but also nationally and internationally. We have many children of pre-school age who have had their first sporting experience in the crest of the Haladás. The loss of the club would not only endanger competitive sport, but also the sporting opportunities of families, children and young people in Szombathely. Our Olympians, world-class athletes – such as Géza Tóth, Erzsébet Márkus, Dániel Ligeti or the footballer Zoltán Szarka – all started their careers within the walls of Haladás. Their names represented not only Szombathely, but the whole nation on the world sports map. But just as important are the coaches, youth trainers and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to educate future generations. For Szombathely and Vas county, the Haladás is more than a sport: it is an identity. It is a community foundation that has educated generations to honour, perseverance and solidarity.

Dear Prime Minister,

In today’s world, where we lose values every day, let us save at least one. A value that has been here for 105 years and gives us hope. A symbol that says: something can exist that will stand the test of time, that will overcome world wars and economic crises.

Please help us save this asset! Under your leadership, the country has set an example by standing up for the preservation of Hungarian values and memories. Now we ask you to do your utmost to ensure that Haladás VSE can survive and continue to nurture its Hungarian champions. With your support, you can give us another chance to keep our coat of arms shining brightly in the skies of Western Transdanubia.

Please help us to keep the green and white colours a beacon of hope in Vas county. This association can be not only our past, but also our future. A future where children, families and athletes can continue to wear the green and white with pride.

Please help us consolidate the association, providing the stable foundation needed to operate. Unfortunately, the difficulties we are facing in maintaining the association have so far not been met with any meaningful support from the city administration; we have only been offered the possibility of joining another organisation. The new Board elected at the Delegates’ Meeting on 18 December is committed to re-launching our beloved club and to consolidating the foundations on which we can build the future of the Progress VSE. However, the support and cooperation of the Prime Minister is now essential.

Let us not let one of Hungary’s oldest jewels be lost.

With respect and hope,

The leaders and supporters of Haladás VSE

Supporters want to raise the money

The Haladás Organised Supporters Groups have decided to appeal to the Haladás fans, supporters and entrepreneurs to raise HUF 55 million!

There is not much time left to settle the NAV debt, but never give up! Let’s do everything to have a team for Szombathely in the spring! In addition to the fans, every “helping hand” is very important now to raise the money!

We would like to ask all supporters who want to help to transfer their support to the bank account of the Haladás Supporters’ Association.

Progress Supporters’ Club Association

Bank account number:

17600042 – 00413093 – 00200004

IBAN account number:

HU37176000420041309300200004

Please write in the message:

Hali support, mobile number:

In case we fail to raise the money and the team cannot start in the championship this spring, we will refund everyone’s support!

December 28, 2024

World’s oldest ever Olympic champion, Hungary’s Ágnes Keleti hospitalised in critical condition

Ágnes Keleti, the world’s oldest ever Olympic champion, an athlete and woman all Hungarians can be proud of, has been hospitalised with respiratory difficulties and heart failure. Nemzeti Sport, Hungary’s main sports magazine, learned additional details about her state and what exactly happened from an unnamed source close to the athlete’s family.

According to their article, Keleti’s state is critical and was hospitalised in Budapest’s Honvédkórház (Military Hospital Medical Centre) on Wednesday. Index.hu wrote that she is in a better state now, and there is hope for total recovery.

The Hungarian news outlet could speak with Rafael Bíró-Keleti, the younger son of the Hungarian Olympic champion. He said Ágnes Keleti suffered from pneumonia, and her condition worsened by Wednesday. Phlegm blocked her trachea, so even doctors gave her little chance of surviving.

Thankfully, the medical team managed to suck the phlegm. Therefore, she can breathe and could even smile again. Mr Bíró-Keleti said they were praying for her and hoped she would recover because her spirit was strong. He added that Ágnes Keleti would have her 104th birthday on 9 January, and they would like to celebrate it with the family.

keleti ágnes — Ágnes Keleti. Photo: MOB/Péter Szalmás

Ágnes Keleti is the most successful Hungarian gymnast, a Holocaust survivor who lost her father in 1944. Only she, her sister and mother survived the death camps. After the war, she focused on gymnastics again. “Injury kept her out of the London Olympics in 1948, so she made her Olympic debut in 1952 in Helsinki at the age of 31, where she earned four medals: gold on floor, silver with the team and bronze in the team portable apparatus event and the uneven bars”, europeangymnastics.com wrote.

In 1954, she won the world title on uneven bars. 1956 was her most successful Olympics, winning four golds for Hungary (bars, beam, floor, portable apparatus team event) and silver with the team and in the all-around.

A video of her 103rd birthday:

The brutal Soviet clash of the Hungarian revolution and freedom fight of 1956 and a political asylum granted by Australia convinced her to remain in Melbourne after the Olympics. There, she could meet her mother and sister again.

Nine months later, she emigrated to Israel. There, she married and had two sons. She worked as a coach and as a physical education instructor at Tel Aviv University. She founded Israeli gymnastics and worked as the coach of the country’s female national team.

“I feel good, but I don’t like to look in the mirror. That’s my trick to remain young!”, she said when she turned 100.

We hope she will be able to celebrate her 104th birthday with her family. Our prayers are with her.

Read also:

Hungarian Ágnes Keleti became the oldest Olympic champion of all time – read more HERE

VIDEO: Ágnes Keleti, the world’s oldest living Olympic champion, turns 102

December 28, 2024

Miracle in Vienna: Hungary’s women’s handball team won bronze! – PHOTOS, VIDEO

Hungary won 25-24 against world champion and Olympic silver winner France in today’s match for the bronze at the 2024 EURO Women’s Handball Championship. The last time a Hungarian women’s handball team could secure a medal was 12 years ago.

Hungary’s women’s handball bronze

According to index.hu the Hungarian team fought fiercely against France in the Wiener Stadthalle in Austria’s capital. Austria, Hungary and Switzerland co-hosted the championships. The matches in Hungary were held in Debrecen.

Hungary's women's handball team won bronze — Photo: MTI

The victory did not come out of the blue since the Hungarian team could defeat the French in Toulon on 24 October in a friendly match (30-27). That was the first time after 14 years that the Hungarian team overcame the French. Thankfully, the “new trend” continued today.

Hungary is considered to be a successful nation in women’s handball. We already won the world championships once and the EHF EURO title 14 years ago. Moreover, the Hungarian team bagged altogether 16 medals. Hungary’s team raised the trophy in 2000, joining the club of only five nations that have won the Women’s EHF EURO.

Norway could only defeat Hungary in the semi-final after key goalkeeper Szemerey was sidelined with a minor injury. Thankfully, she could return for today’s match.

Match highlights

The official website of the competition highlighted the following from the bronze match:

“The goalkeepers stood out in the first half in particular, with France’s Laura Glauser and Hungary’s Zsófi Szemerey saving at over 40 per cent in that period; while Glauser came off with 11 saves at 35 per cent for Hatadou Sako at the 50-minute mark, Szemerey counted 13 stops and was key in crunch time.

France opened the first two-goal distance of the game at 5:3 just past the 10-minute mark, before Hungary took the upper hand, always scoring first or leading, from the end of the first quarter of the match until the final buzzer.

With an assist from EHF EURO 2024 All-star Team right back Klujber to a goal from All-star right wing Gyori-Lukács, Hungary created the first three-goal scoreline at 10:7 in the 25th minute, but France came back for a difference of one at half-time.

Hungary again created a temporary three-goal advantage early in the second half and kept the edge as a thrilling match unfolded, but when the final 10 minutes began, it was still anyone’s game at 20:20.

Klujber’s nine goals took her overall tally at the EHF EURO 2024 to 60, seeming to cement her place in first on the top scorer list — but the individual title can only be confirmed beyond doubt after the final between Norway and Denmark.”

Here is a highlights video:

“It’s almost impossible to describe how I feel right now. This is the best Christmas present I have ever gotten. And I’m so proud of our team. We work really hard and today we went and fought from the first second to the last one. I think that the key was our team spirit”, Petra Vámos, Hungary’s centre-back, told the press after the bronze match.

Read also:

Here’s Hungary’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA: can we do it? – read more HERE
Willi Orbán vows to help RB Leipzig achieve ‘full potential’ after below-par start to the season

December 15, 2024

Here’s Hungary’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA: can we do it?

It was at FIFA’s Zürich headquarters on Friday that Hungary Men were drawn from the second pot of seeds to contest European Qualifying Group F, one which will feature two familiar opponents and one less so. Here’s Hungary’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA. Will we be able to qualify? And will President Trump attend our matches with Orbán?

Hungary’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico will start in a four-team European Qualifying group including the winners of the Portugal vs Denmark Nations League play-off tie, as well as familiar recent opponent Republic of Ireland and intriguingly, Armenia, whom Hungary have faced just once in the past, a 2004 friendly in Greece, mlsz.hu wrote.

That fixture came during German World Cup winner Lothar Matthäus‘s reign as Hungary head coach, his largely experimental side winning 2-0 during a winter training camp. Republic of ireland are a much more well-known opponent, Marco Rossi’s squad having faced them twice in friendlies in recent years, a warm-up match held in Újpest prior to the delayed Euro 2020 tournament in June 2021 which ended goalless (as did a previous friendly fixture prior to Euro 2012) being followed by another friendly earlier this year when the Irish triumphed 2-1.

The group’s top seeds, the winner of March 2025’s Nations League play-off between Portugal and Denmark, are also very recognisable to Hungarian fans, and not just because they possess world stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo for the former and Christian Eriksen for the latter. Both nations were drawn in the same 2010 World Cup qualifying group as Hungary, two losses against Portugal proving costly as Hungary failed to reached the tournament finals despite a home draw and away victory against Denmark.

Group F Hungary 2026 FIFA World Cup — Photo: FB/FIFA World Cup 2026

Hungary and Portugal have also met in recent EUROs, a pulsating 3-3 draw in 2016 resulting in Hungary’s confirmation as group-stage winners in France, while Portugal gained a measure of revenge by overcoming Hungary 3-0 in Budapest in the 2021 group phase.

Fixture venues, dates and times for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign will be confirmed in due course.

Here are the matches:

6 September (Saturday), 8:45 PM: Ireland-Hungary
9 September (Tuesday), 8:45 PM: Hungary-Portugal/Denmark
11 October (Saturday), 6 PM: Hungary-Armenia
14 October (Tuesday), 8:45 PM: Portugal/Denmark-Hungary
13 November (Thursday), 6 PM: Armenia-Hungary
16 November (Sunday), 3 PM: Hungary-Ireland

Marco Rossi: There is no easy opponent

Hungary Men’s World Cup qualifying opponent from the first pot of seeds, either Portugal or Denmark, will definitely be a tough proposition, according to head coach Marco Rossi, but he’s emphasised there are no easy opponents in international football nowadays anyway.

As well as the winner of the Nations League play-off tie between Portugal or Denmark, European Qualifying Group F will pit Hungary against Republic of Ireland and Armenia during 2025 as Europe’s national teams strive to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

“I counted on us getting an extremely strong team from the first pot of seeds, which may well turn out to be Portugal. We know them and are aware of their strength, so while we won’t be the favourites to win, we’ll try to do our best,” Rossi explained. “As for the others, we’ve recently experienced the difficulties of playing against Republic of Ireland. We’re talking about a physically tough team, but as we also know, it’s not easy against anyone away from home, even if the Irish and Armenian national teams may not quite represent the same level as that of the very top nations. Every match will be in the balance – f course it’s important that we’re ahead in the world rankings, but we have to produce our best possible performance in order to prove it on the pitch and overcome these opponents.”

Of the two possible opponents from the first pot of seeds, Rossi has already managed Hungary in a match against Portugal, a 3-0 loss in the group stage of the European Championship in the Puskás Arena in 2021.

Hungary football team Marco Rossi 2026 FIFA World Cup — Marco Rossi. Photo: FB/magyarlabdarugoszovetseg

“The Portuguese national team has changed a lot since our last match against each other. Several players have been replaced, but we’re still talking about a top team with excellent footballers in every position. In addition, they have Cristiano Ronaldo who is very difficult to stop and is effective not only in Saudi Arabia, but also against the biggest nations for his national team,” Rossi continued, after which he answered the question of which of these two possible opponents he’d choose as an opponent in terms of playing style. “We’re talking about two teams with different styles. The Danes play classic Scandinavian football; they’re physically strong, well organised and also tactically and technically well prepared. They have several excellent players, but I think Portugal are stronger. Therefore, if I had to choose, I would choose Denmark, because Portugal is an even better team than them. Of course, this doesn’t mean we’d have an easy time against Denmark, but knowing their style, we’d have more of a chance against them. However, Portugal’s loss against Georgia meant we were eliminated at this year’s European Championship, so if we’d get them, I’d be happy that we’ll have the opportunity to gain a measure of revenge.”

Read also:

Willi Orbán vows to help RB Leipzig achieve ‘full potential’ after below-par start to the season – read more HERE
Jürgen Klopp masters the Hungarian language and speaks with perfect pronunciation – VIDEO and more in THIS article

December 14, 2024

Willi Orbán vows to help RB Leipzig achieve ‘full potential’ after below-par start to the season

RB Leipzig have, slowly but surely, become one of the most consistent teams in the German Bundesliga and the Champions League.

But the Red Bull franchise hasn’t quite been at the races in 2024/25 so far… leaving their Hungarian ace and club captain, Willi Orbán, at a loss to explain their low-key start to the campaign.

However, the 32-year-old has vowed to do all he can to help the club unlock its ‘full potential’, and his performances so far this term confirm he’s leading from the front heading into a crucial chapter of the season.

Crisis on the Continental Front

One of the main casualties of RB Leipzig’s sluggish start has been their results in the revamped Champions League.

They lost all of their opening five games in the competition, leaving them trailing in the Champions League betting market to the likes of Liverpool (+450), Manchester City (+550), and Arsenal (+550).

Indeed, Champions League winner odds of +25000 suggest that Leipzig’s hopes of advancing in the continental showpiece are all but over.

And so attention will turn to domestic matters, where Die Rotten Bullen have their eyes fixed on another top-four finish… or better.

Bundesliga table after matchday 13 pic.twitter.com/YD0lVYcOWU

— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) December 8, 2024

After 13 rounds of action, Leipzig find themselves in fourth place, albeit nine points behind the leaders Bayern Munich. However, a win – and other results going their way – could see Orbán and co leap as high as second in the table, which is more in-line with their ambitions.

However, the Expected Points table – which subtracts Expected Goals (xG) yielded from xG created – shows Leipzig’s ‘true’ position, based upon their performances, as a lowly ninth in the Bundesliga.

At least in Orbán they have a captain leading from the front…

Captain Fantastic

Increasingly these days in modern football, central defenders are athletic ball-players with an eye for a pass.

But that genre of player can sometimes struggle with the physicality of defending, which is why centre backs like the Hungarian are still worth their weight in gold.

Orbán prides himself on doing the ‘dirty work’ of defending, from making last-ditch tackles and blocks, to putting his head in where it hurts. No wonder his Leipzig teammates consider him to be such an inspirational leader.

After 13 rounds of Bundesliga games, Orbán ranks third amongst the division’s players for aerial duels won, third for successful blocks, and fifth for clearances made. He is, statistically speaking, the best defender in German football right now.

The powerhouse is also a handful in the opposition’s penalty area at set pieces, scoring four times in the Bundesliga so far this term.

But the Leipzig captain appreciates that there’s more work to be done, and while he was feeling bullish after his side’s 2-0 victory over Holstein Kiel early in December, Orbán confirmed that he and his teammates still had higher levels to strive for.

“We didn’t manage to play to our full potential in November, both as a team and as individual players,” he said.

But the belief is still there… and why wouldn’t it be, with Orbán leading from the front.

December 12, 2024

Dominik Szoboszlai and Liverpool: a promising season ahead

As Liverpool embarks on the 2024 season, the spotlight is firmly on Dominik Szoboszlai, the Hungarian midfielder who joined the club in a high-profile transfer from RB Leipzig for approximately £60 million. Szoboszlai’s integration into Liverpool’s dynamic midfield has reinforced the team’s competitive edge and sparked optimism among fans and analysts alike regarding a successful season.

Szoboszlai’s Role and Contributions

Szoboszlai, who has consistently demonstrated his potential as a playmaker, has been pivotal in Liverpool’s early successes this season. Despite facing some criticism for his goal-scoring output—having netted only once in the Champions League against AC Milan—he emphasizes his commitment to the team’s overall performance rather than individual statistics. He remarked, “If we are top of the league and I don’t score goals, that’s the most important for me”. This mentality reflects a mature understanding of his role within the squad, focusing on contributing defensively and creatively.

His ability to create scoring opportunities is noteworthy; last season at Leipzig, he led in several key metrics, including involvement in shot-ending sequences and creating secondary chances. This season under manager Arne Slot, Szoboszlai’s shooting approach has evolved. He is now taking fewer long-range shots but focusing on higher-quality chances closer to goal, which aligns with Liverpool’s tactical shift towards more sustainable scoring methods.

Tactical Evolution Under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s tactical framework has undergone significant changes since Slot’s appointment. The team is now more patient in possession, waiting for optimal moments to attack rather than relying on quick strikes from distance. This strategic evolution has allowed Szoboszlai to thrive as a second striker, utilizing his physicality and intelligence to find space and support offensive plays. His development in this role is expected to yield more goals as he adapts to the demands of playing closer to the opposition’s goal.

Team Performance and Prospects

Liverpool currently sits at the top of the Premier League table, showcasing a strong start to the season with six points from their initial Champions League matches and a recent victory over Chelsea. The team’s resilience and fighting spirit have been evident, particularly in high-stakes matches against top-tier opponents. Slot noted that while results have been positive, there remains room for improvement in their overall gameplay.

The integration of Szoboszlai into this competitive environment has not only enhanced Liverpool’s midfield depth but also provided a fresh attacking dimension. His work ethic off the ball complements Liverpool’s pressing style, making him an invaluable asset as they aim for silverware this season.

Conclusion

As Liverpool progresses through the season, Dominik Szoboszlai stands out as a key figure whose contributions extend beyond mere statistics. His adaptability and commitment to team success align perfectly with Liverpool’s ambitions. With continued development and tactical refinement under Slot, Szoboszlai is poised to make significant impacts both in terms of goals and assists as the season unfolds. The combination of his talent and Liverpool’s current form suggests that this could indeed be a memorable season for both player and club.

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read also: UEFA Nations League: Hungary levels the score against Germany in 99th minute, Szalai receives thoughtful gift – PHOTOS

December 9, 2024

For the first time in 12 years: the Hungarian handball team plays in the semi-finals of the European Championship

Hungary’s women’s handball team has made a significant achievement by securing a spot in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s EHF EURO Championship, marking their first appearance in this stage of the tournament in 12 years.

This milestone was reached following a decisive 37-29 victory over Romania on December 8, 2024, which solidified their position after winning all six matches in the tournament thus far.

The Hungarian team showcased strong performances throughout the competition, including earlier victories against Sweden (32-25) and North Macedonia (29-19), demonstrating their dominance in the group stage.

Their consistent play has been attributed to effective teamwork and strategic adjustments made by coach Vladimir Golovin, who emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and focus during matches. Golovin said to EHF: “We are really happy that after the sixth game in this tournament we already know that we are in the semi-finals. We worked a lot, really hard, in the past few years, and we are really proud of the team and of the girls. Of course, we would like to thank the fans because the atmosphere was fantastic tonight and they pushed us.”

After the qualification, the national captain told NSO:

“It’s the same game as the others. Everyone knows what their job is, nothing is given for free to anyone, if we want something we have to get it. External factors obviously influence the team, but the main thing is that in those forty times twenty metres up on the pitch everyone just concentrates on what they have to do and we have managed to do that not only now but in all the matches so far. They know what they want, what they have to do to achieve it. Of course, you can’t always succeed, it’s not a machine, it’s not players, it’s people, but they keep supporting each other whatever happens. Nothing works without concentration, and we need that in the next game, and then the next one. France is the next task, the girls will get the video footage of them late at night, they will watch it in the morning and study it. On Monday afternoon we have a training session, we do video, we prepare as we have done so far, but we only deal with the French. I know that everyone is calculating who from the other semi-final group will make it to the semi-finals, but nothing is certain at the moment, it might only be the last round on Wednesday that decides whether it’s Denmark or Norway, but we’re not looking that far ahead.”

As they prepare for the semi-finals, Hungary will face Montenegro in Debrecen. The team has expressed gratitude to their fans for their support and looks forward to continuing their successful run in the championship.

Group I. Standing
1. MAGYARORSZÁG	4	4	–	–	126–95	+31	8
2. Franciaország	4	4	–	–	127–97	+30	8
3. Montenegró	4	2	–	2	100–110	–10	4
4. Románia	4	1	–	3	104–117	–13	2
5. Svédország	4	1	–	3	108–113	–5	2
6. Lengyelország	4	–	–	4	96–129	–33	0

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December 9, 2024