Hungary misses out on 2026 World Cup after heartbreaking 3–2 defeat to Ireland

Hungary’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in dramatic fashion on Sunday, as Marco Rossi’s team suffered a 3–2 defeat to Ireland at the Puskás Aréna. A draw would have been enough to secure a spot in the play-offs, but Troy Parrott’s late strike in the 96th minute sealed Hungary’s fate.

Early lead, quick equaliser

Despite the enormous stakes, Hungary started the game brightly. In the 3rd minute, Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a sharp corner from the left, which Dániel Lukács glanced into the near post. After a VAR check, the goal stood: 1–0.

The lead, however, was short-lived. Eight minutes later, Attila Szalai mistimed a challenge in the Irish penalty area, and after a lengthy video review, it was ruled a penalty. Parrott calmly converted from the spot, leaving goalkeeper Dibusz helpless: 1–1.

The match continued to offer plenty of excitement. In the 27th minute, Roland Sallai’s close-range chance was brilliantly saved by Kelleher. But ten minutes later, Barnabás Varga restored Hungary’s advantage in style: after a cross from Kerkez, Varga controlled the ball on his chest before volleying it high into the top left corner. The Puskás Aréna erupted: 2–1.

“The Hungarian team will not be at the 2026 FIFA World Cup”:

Hard-fought second half and collapsing finale

After the break, Rossi’s side appeared to control the match. Fans repeatedly chanted the captain’s name, and Hungary’s defence held firm against Irish attacks.

But in the 80th minute, the breakthrough came for Ireland. Parrott lifted the ball over the advancing Dibusz into the net: 2–2. Hungary tried to respond, but Szoboszlai’s 86th-minute effort was superbly saved by Kelleher.

The closing stages were intense. Dibusz made another outstanding save from a close-range attempt by Kenny, but ultimately, the miracle never came.

Dreams shattered in the 96th minute

During stoppage time, Irish goalkeeper Kelleher launched a final long ball. It fell to Parrott at the halfway line after a slight deflection. Racing past Mocsi and Dibusz on the edge of the box, he calmly finished from close range. The Irish celebrated ecstatically, while Hungarian supporters sat in stunned silence.

The 2–3 defeat meant Hungary finished third in their group behind Portugal and Ireland, missing out on the March play-offs. Ireland will continue their campaign behind Portugal, while Rossi’s team saw their World Cup qualification hopes end.

No progress after 28 years

Hungary has not reached the play-off stage of World Cup qualifiers since 1997, and despite coming close this time, they were unable to take the historic opportunity. Early dominance, Varga’s spectacular goal, and Dibusz’s heroics were not enough; in the end, the Irish team proved calmer and more efficient.

The loss is particularly bitter as qualification had been within tangible reach for much of the match. In the end, Hungary’s hopes of appearing at the 2026 World Cup slipped away in a heartbreaking final.

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