football

Hungarian Foreign Minister: Israel’s goal of destroying Hamas is not only understandable, but legitimate

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It is in the interest of the world that Israel’s counter-terrorist operations are successful, Péter Szijjártó, the foreign minister, said on Monday in Brussels, arguing that this would help to ensure that a similar terrorist attack never happened “anywhere ever again”.

War for peace, Hungary accepts

After a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, Szijjártó told a press conference that Hungary’s standpoint was “crystal clear”: it must never be forgotten what triggered the conflict in the Middle East.

“We find Israel’s objective to destroy Hamas not only understandable but also a legitimate interest of the world at large… People who use others, especially women and children, as human shields after mounting a terrorist attack should feel shame,” he said, calling for a swift return to the path set out by the Abraham Accords, namely the normalisation of relations between Israel and the Arab world.

Hungary, he said, called for the “immediate and unconditional release of the hostages who are still in captivity”, noting that a Hungarian citizen was still being held captive and was hopefully alive.

Hungary is in constant contact with Qatar and another important mediating country, he said, adding he would not name that country due to the sensitivity of hostage negotiations.

Szijjártó said he also emphasised Hungary’s position that it found The Hague proceedings against Israel to be “nonsense”.

“It’s nonsense to accuse a country on the receiving end of a brutal terrorist attack of genocide,” he said.

Since 7 October, 1391 Israelis have died, until the beginning of January. Hamas terrorists killed around 1200 people that day, mostly civilians, taking hostages and wounding thousands. So far, more than 185 Israeli soldiers have been killed in the invasion.

23,357 Palestinians killed since October 7, Jerusalem Post said on middle of January.

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Israel football teams will play in Hungary

Meanwhile, he said Israel had asked Hungary to allow its national football teams to play some of its official matches in Hungary, as was the case last year.

Israel’s European Championship playoff against Iceland will be held in Hungary, as well as the match of the Israeli under-21 team against Poland, and the next official match of the women’s national team. Also, Hungary supports Maccabi Haifa playing the next European Conference League match in Hungary.

The minister also said that Hungary was a safe country, and anyone who referred to a rise in anti-Semitism in Hungary was “clearly lying”.

 

VIDEO: Dominik Szoboszlai singing with Hungarian star singer is going viral

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A song has been created using artificial intelligence, featuring Dominik Szoboszlai, a footballer, and Azahriah, one of the most successful young Hungarian artists of our time.

The YouTube channel Full of Stars has published a video clip. In this AI generated clip, Azahriah sings with Dominik Szoboszlai. The young singer, who has filled the Puskás Arena for three consecutive days, and the Liverpool footballer have been a hit on the internet.

The base is taken from one of Azahriah and Desh’s most famous songs, Mind1, to which they wrote the lyrics, “It doesn’t matter if you score. A Dominik bomb from 25-30. You bomb all our problems like that, Szobo!”

The channel that shared the video added that the music and lyrics were not the work of artificial intelligence, with the AI being used to shape the recorded sounds to the two stars’ tones.

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Five Most Popular Sports in Hungary

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Hungary, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, is also home to a fervent sports culture. Hungarians have a deep-seated passion for physical activities, and a variety of sports have thrived in this Central European country. In this article, we delve into the five most popular sports in Hungary, showcasing the athletic prowess and enthusiasm that define the Hungarian sporting landscape.

Football (Soccer)

Football, or soccer as it is known in many parts of the world, stands tall as the undisputed champion of sports in Hungary. The Hungarian love affair with football dates back to the early 20th century, with the national team achieving remarkable success. The “Golden Team” of the 1950s, led by legendary player Ferenc Puskás, left an indelible mark on Hungarian football history. The passion for the sport is evident not only in the thriving professional leagues but also in the numerous local clubs and grassroots initiatives that nurture young talents across the country.

Budapest, the capital city, serves as the epicenter of football fervor, and you can find a football-themed game at casino not on GamStop. The iconic Ferenc Puskás Stadium, named after the Hungarian football legend, stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to the beautiful game. The atmosphere in the stadium during a match is electric, with fans passionately supporting their favorite teams.

Water Polo

In Hungary, water polo holds a special place in the hearts of sports enthusiasts. The Hungarian water polo team is renowned globally for its excellence and dominance in the sport. Hungary has a storied history of success in water polo, having won numerous Olympic gold medals and world championships. The sport’s popularity extends beyond professional competitions, with local water polo clubs thriving in cities and towns across the country.

The Danube River and Lake Balaton provide ample opportunities for water sports, making water polo a natural choice for Hungarians seeking aquatic thrills. The blend of strategic gameplay and physical prowess in water polo has captivated the nation, and the sport continues to inspire aspiring athletes to take to the pool.

Handball

Handball has emerged as one of the most popular indoor sports in Hungary. Known for its fast-paced nature and close-quarter action, handball has a dedicated fan base that follows both domestic and international competitions. The Hungarian national handball team has achieved notable success on the world stage, with passionate supporters cheering them on.

Local handball leagues draw considerable attention, with matches becoming community events that bring people together. The sport’s accessibility and the intense physical demands it places on players have contributed to its widespread popularity among both players and spectators. Handball arenas, adorned with the colors of competing teams, buzz with excitement during matches, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Athletics

Athletics, encompassing track and field events, has a strong presence in Hungary, driven by the pursuit of excellence in individual disciplines. Hungary has produced exceptional athletes who have left an indelible mark on the global stage. The nation takes pride in its long-distance runners, sprinters, javelin throwers, and high jumpers who showcase their skills in international competitions.

The Hungarian Athletics Federation plays a pivotal role in nurturing talent from a young age, providing training facilities and support to promising athletes. The annual Hungarian Athletics Championships draw considerable attention, with spectators witnessing the country’s best athletes vying for glory. The sport’s emphasis on personal achievement and physical prowess resonates with many Hungarians, contributing to its enduring popularity.

Basketball

While basketball may not have the historical prominence of football or water polo in Hungary, its popularity has been steadily growing in recent years. The Hungarian Basketball Federation has made significant efforts to promote the sport, leading to an increase in the number of players and enthusiasts.

Basketball courts in parks and schools’ bustle with activity as young talents hone their skills. The professional basketball league, known as the Nemzeti Bajnokság I, showcases the country’s top teams competing for supremacy. Hungary’s national basketball team has also made strides in international competitions, further fueling the sport’s popularity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hungary’s sporting landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of passion, skill, and community spirit. From the roaring cheers in football stadiums to the rhythmic splashes in water polo pools, the Hungarian people embrace sports as an integral part of their culture. Whether on the field, in the water, or on the track, the pursuit of excellence in sports continues to unite and inspire the nation.

The Premier League’s top managerial rivalries

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The Premier League has been home to some of the most intense and captivating managerial rivalries in football history.

These enthralling battles on the touchline have added an extra layer of drama and excitement to some of the biggest games in the league.

From tactical duels to mind games, these rivalries have shaped the narrative of the English game and even had an impact on the football odds.

Without further ado, let’s delve into some of the top managerial clashes that have defined the Premier League era.

Sir Alex Ferguson vs Arsene Wenger

One of the most iconic and enduring rivalries in Premier League history was the battle between Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United and Arsene Wenger of Arsenal.

Lasting over a decade, the two managers clashed in numerous high-stakes encounters — creating an intense rivalry that transcended the touchline.

Their contrasting styles and philosophies added spice to the contests, making matches between Manchester United and Arsenal must-watch events during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Jose Mourinho vs Arsene Wenger

Jose Mourinho’s arrival at Chelsea in 2004 brought forth another captivating managerial rivalry, this time with Wenger.

The ‘Special One’ and the ‘Professor’ engaged in heated exchanges both on and off the pitch.

Memorable moments include Mourinho’s jibe at Wenger being a “specialist in failure” and the infamous touchline spat during a league encounter in 2014.

This rivalry added an extra layer of drama to the London derby between the Blues and the Gunners, with both managers pushing their teams to excel in the Premier League winner odds.

Jurgen Klopp vs Pep Guardiola

In recent years, the rivalry between Jurgen Klopp of Liverpool and Pep Guardiola of Manchester City has dominated the Premier League landscape.

The two charismatic and highly successful managers have pushed each other to new heights, creating enthralling title races that have seen Man City win the league by a single point on two occasions.

Their tactical acumen, passion on the sidelines, and mutual respect have elevated the standard of football in the league, making clashes between Liverpool and Manchester City key fixtures in the calendar.

Sir Alex Ferguson vs Jose Mourinho

Sir Alex Ferguson’s managerial career overlapped with several prominent figures, and another of the most intriguing rivalries emerged against Jose Mourinho.

The battles between Ferguson’s Manchester United and Mourinho’s Chelsea showcased the old guard against the new.

The mind games, touchline theatrics, and competitive spirit between these two managerial giants left an indelible mark on the Premier League.

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In hindsight, you could probably do an entire article on Premier League managers Mourinho rubbed up the wrong way, as the Portuguese boss also had run-ins with the likes Guardiola, Rafa Benitez and Antonio Conte. 

But the Premier League’s top managerial rivalries have not only defined an era but have also contributed to the league’s global appeal.

From Ferguson vs. Wenger to Klopp vs. Guardiola, these clashes have given fans moments of joy, heartbreak and unforgettable drama.

As the league evolves, new rivalries will undoubtedly emerge, but the legacy of these managerial duels will forever be etched in the history of the beautiful game.

The Top Football Events for Hungarian Fans to Watch in 2024

Hungarian football fans are in for a treat in 2024, with the upcoming calendar packed with a host of top-class events at club and international level.

The new year features a line-up of mouth-watering events, with several Hungarian players and teams set to grace the grandest stages across the world.

With that in mind, read on as we highlight some of the attention-gripping events that should keep Hungarian fans on the edge of their seats in 2024.

Europa League – Can Dominik Szoboszlai lead Liverpool to the Title?

Dominik Szoboszlai has established himself as a crucial component in Liverpool’s tactical set-up this season, helping the club make progress in several competitions.

The 23-year-old Hungary international has shown his class in the Premier League, notching two goals and three assists to emerge as a driving force in Liverpool’s exceptional early season form.

While Szoboszlai has barely featured for the Reds in the Europa League group stage, manager Jurgen Klopp will likely unleash his big guns during the knockout phase.

He is among a handful of Liverpool stars who can make a significant contribution to the club’s European push, as evidenced by his performances in the Premier League.

The former RB Leipzig man has been a standout performer in Klopp’s revamped midfield and is a perfect fit for the German tactician’s gegenpressing style of play.

Szoboszlai has dazzled with his skill, relentless energy and shooting ability and will undoubtedly play a vital role in Liverpool’s Europa League ambitions.

Europa Conference League – Ferencváros Chasing Unlikely Triumph

Hungarian champions Ferencváros missed the chance to advance to the next phase of the Europa Conference League as group winners after drawing 1-1 with Fiorentina on the final matchday.

The green and whites broke the deadlock three minutes into the second half of the crunch clash through Kristoffer Zachariassen but failed to see out a vital win as Fiorentina snatched a point.

As a consequence of settling for a share of the spoils, Ferencváros are forced to go through a play-off phase to secure a spot in the latter rounds of the Europa Conference League.

They have been paired with Greek heavyweights Olympiacos, who finished third in their Europa League group. The Greek side are favourites with the bookmakers to win the tie.

The two sides have never faced each other in a continental competition, so the magic of the cup could easily sway this one in favour of the Hungarian heavy hitters.

While Ferencvaros face a near-impossible task of lifting the trophy, they will hope to embark on a deep run in their inaugural participation in the tournament.

AFC Champions League – Ronaldo Eyeing More Silverware

While it is ten years since Hungarian midfielder György Sándor played in the Saudi Pro League (SPL), the competition still has plenty of appeal for fans across the country.

The addition of global superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema has made the SPL an intriguing proposition for football fans in Hungary and across the world.

The influx of overseas talent has not only raised the profile of the division but also opened up a wide array of betting opportunities for European fans hoping to keep tabs on their favourite players.

Sports betting in Arab countries has also increased massively, with punters across the region now attracted to the myriad of superstars the division has to offer.

Those bettors will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the exploits of Ronaldo and Benzema in the AFC Champions League, with their respective teams making it through to the knockout stage.

European Championship – Hungary Aiming to Upset the Odds

England and France are the bookies’ favourites to win the 2024 European Championship, while host nation Germany will be desperate to win the tournament on home turf.

However, Hungary’s exceptional performances in the qualifiers could see them emerge as the dark horses for the competition.

Led by Liverpool maestro Szoboszlai, Hungary sealed a spot at Euro 2024 with an unbeaten record, winning five of their eight qualifier fixtures and settling for a share of the spoils three times.

Hungary will fancy their chances of upsetting the odds in Germany, and fans will expect Szoboszlai to play a central role in their lofty ambitions.

Spain and Portugal are also expected to be competitive in what promises to be one of the most fiercely fought international competitions ever staged.

Here is Orbán’s Christmas interview about his favourite topic: soccer

Viktor Orbán Russia NATO secret plan PM Orbán

Hungary’s football is “alive and well”, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in an interview published by the daily Nemzeti Sport on Friday.

In his interview, the prime minister said he had no doubts “even for a moment” concerning the revival of Hungary’s football, but said “still, it was in football that I made the greatest mistake in the past ten years: we built a stadium for 64,000 visitors rather than for 90,000 . we were tight-spirited, and that’s wrong.”

The reason Hungarian football “is good is not that suddenly the system of academic training has become better or we have better trainers . but because the whole country has moved in the same direction: we have started upwards,” he said, adding that he was referring “not only to the economy, but to culture, the arts, and science, too”. He said “a desire for a higher-living is now present in Hungary, in the life of the individual, and in small communities, too”.

Concerning Hungary’s football academies, the prime minister said the system had arrived “at the end of an era” and their operations and financing would change considerably, putting the focus on achievement. “We will not focus on what happens at the academies but on the players that come out of them,” he added.

Orbán said the sports academies would continue to be supervised by the state, but “we will now shift to an output system and if that works we could consider another arrangement.” He also said he was waiting for an era of his childhood to return, in which “there were no academies just clubs.”

Clubs today are “under such financial pressure that if they have to choose they will prefer the first team to succession . they don’t have enough money yet to afford running an academy,” Orbán said. He also added that the academy system was a “guarantee of tomorrow . a great help to sports . unless the clubs are strong enough, we need the state-run academy system.”

No better place than Budapest for international sports organisations

Orbán said support for sports should be considered like support for parents to raise children.

He said much effort had been made to bring Hungarians’ commitment to sports to the surface, and now the results are expected. Coaches have received recognition, sports facilities have been fixed and large international competitions have been brought to Hungary, to enable sportspeople to show their skills on home ground, he added.

He said he had some bad feelings about the 2017 withdrawal of Budapest’s bid for the 2024 Olympics. However, today the situation is different; all important facilities needed for an Olympic Games have been completed and “Budapest can hardly develop greatly without hosting an Olympic Games”, he added.

Budapest’s level of development is at 160 percent of the European Union level, while there are parts of rural Hungary whose development level is at 50 percent, he said. “All the money must be directed to lesser-developed regions,” he added.

Large-scale development in Budapest can only happen if the city comes forward with something important to all Hungarians, he said.

He also said that Hungary has strong sports diplomacy representation in international organisations, not only in soccer but also in the Olympic movement. “There is no better place than Budapest for international sports organisations,” he added.

Read also:

  • Hungary qualifies for European Championship! – Check out the photos and details HERE
  • Dominik Szoboszlai: can he lead Liverpool to the Premier League title?

Champions League, Europa League & Europa Conference League Group Stage Recap

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The group stage of UEFA’s three club competitions is now complete and teams across Europe are looking forward to the knockout phase of the competitions next year.

Read on as we recap the opening phase of the 2023/24 Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League.

Champions League

Bayern Munich finished top of Group A with five wins and one draw, leaving second-placed FC Copenhagen eight points behind.

They are one of the bookmakers’ favourites to go all the way this season, but they’ll need to significantly improve on their group stage performances to bolster their chances.

Galatasaray secured a slot in the Europa League knockout play-off round, while Manchester United were eliminated from the continental scene.

Arsenal swatted aside their Group B competitors, finishing top of the group with 13 points, four ahead of runners-up PSV Eindhoven.

The Gunners have announced their Champions League re-emergence in emphatic fashion, but with odds of 8.00, they’ll need to upset the apple cart to seal an unlikely triumph.

Real Madrid took Group C by storm, winning each of their six games in another dominant campaign, while Napoli finished second with ten points.

Los Blancos are perennial contenders for the title. At odds of 6.50 odds the 14-time champions will fancy another crack at the European holy grail.

Despite being level on points and tied in the head-to-head record, Real Sociedad pipped Inter Milan to progress as Group D winners, with Benfica finishing third and Red Bull Salzburg eliminated.

Borussia Dortmund exceeded expectations in the so-called group of death, clinching a top-of-the-table finish ahead of Paris Saint-Germain.

AC Milan’s last-gasp win over Newcastle United earned them a place in the Europa League and condemned the Magpies to the bottom of the group.

Atletico Madrid’s unbeaten streak propelled them to the top of Group E, with Lazio joining the Spaniards in the knockout stage as runners-up.

Champions League holders Manchester City surged to the top of Group G, winning all six games, with RB Leipzig emerging in second place.

The Premier League champions have been tipped at 3.00 odds to clinch a historic back-to-back triumph in the Champions League, and you wouldn’t put it past them to go all the way again.

Australian defender Milos Degenek watched from the sidelines as Red Star Belgrade were condemned to a third consecutive bottom-place finish while Young Boys sealed a Europa League place.

After back-to-back group stage eliminations, Barcelona secured a place in the last 16 as Group H winners, with Porto progressing as runners-up.

Europa League

West Ham United’s 2-0 victory over SC Freiburg in the final matchday secured their status as Group A winners, with the Bundesliga side finishing as runners-up.

Brighton & Hove Albion and Olympique Marseille went head-to-head in the final group game, with the Seagulls emerging as 1-0 winners to seal a place in the knockout stage as Group B winners.

Rangers and Slavia Prague progressed from Group C, while Atalanta progressed from Group D as winners, with Portuguese leaders Sporting CP finishing as runners-up.

Liverpool are bookmakers’ Europa League title favourites at odds of 3.25. They progressed to the latter phase, winning four of their six group-stage games to finish top of Group E.

Hungarian international Dominic Szoboszlai barely featured in the group phase but the 23-year-old will be crucial to Liverpool’s continental aspirations this season.

Australian midfielder Denis Genreau played a bit-part role in helping Toulouse advance to the knockout phase as Group E runners-up, making four continental appearances.

The best sports betting sites in Australia will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Genreau and Toulouse as they progress through the tournament.

However, their odds of 67.00 suggest their chances of lifting the prestigious trophy is nothing more than a far-fetched dream.

Villarreal and Stade Rennais played out a thrilling spectacle in the final Group F clash with the Spanish side emerging 3-2 winners to advance as group winners.

Rennes were denied a late goal by VAR but they’ll be heading into the knockout phase as runners-up after taking 12 points from six games.

Slavia Prague ousted Italian giants AS Roma to finish as Group G winners while Bayer Leverkusen blitzed through the group phase, winning all six games to secure a top-seeded slot in the last 16 draw.

Leverkusen’s dominant group stage campaign has only reinforced their status as contenders for the title and their odds of 6.50 to go all the way would entice savvy punters.

Europa Conference League

Hungarian giants Ferencvarosi TC punched their ticket to the knockout phase of the Europa Conference League, finishing second in Group F, two points adrift of Serie A side Fiorentina.

Lille and Slovan Liberec progressed from Group A while Israeli giants Maccabi Tel Aviv advanced to the latter phase as Group B winners, beating runners-up KAA Gent by two points.

Viktoria Plzen won all six of their group games, sending a message to the rest of the competition even though they have an outside chance of success in the tournament with 26.00 odds.

They finished nine points ahead of runners-up Dinamo Zagreb and will fancy their chances of a deep run in the competition.

Club Brugge, Bodo Glimt, Aston Villa, Legia Warsaw, PAOK, Eintracht Frankfurt, Fenerbahce and Ludogorets are the other sides through to the Europa Conference League knockout phase.

Ferencváros qualify to the last 16 of the European Conference League

Ferencváros

Ferencváros progressed as runners-up from Group F of the Conference Football League after a 1-1 draw at home to Italian finalists Fiorentina, the first-placed side from the previous competition to reach the last eight, on Thursday.

The green-and-whites took the lead at the start of the second half through Kristoffer Zachariassen’s goal, but Florence equalised through Luca Ranieri’s goal in the 73rd minute. The points draw meant Fiorentina progressed to the last eight in March as group leaders, while the Hungarian champions, who also reached the Europa League last season, will play for a place in the last 16 in February as runners-up.

On Monday, Ferencváros will be drawn in Nyon to face one of the third-placed teams in the Europa League group stage.

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Unlocking EFL League Potential: Schedule Insights and Predictions

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The EFL is home to some of the best players in the world, with teams from all over the country vying for glory. While the Premier League often steals the spotlight, the EFL is the foundation for football in England. With three divisions – the Championship, the League One, and the League Two – the EFL is home to some of the best young players around and a great place to compete. This article will delve into the schedule insights and make predictions for the upcoming EFL season.

If you want to make a bet, you can visit 1xbet to football bet online.

The Structure of the EFL

Before we delve into the schedule insights and predictions, let’s quickly recap the structure of the EFL:

Championship: This is the second-highest division in English football, just below the Premier League. It’s known for its competitive nature and has a reputation for teams that can surprise the football world.

League One: League One is the third division of English football. It’s a fierce competition where teams fight to make it to the top flight or stay above the drop zone.

League Two: The fourth and final tier of the EFL, League Two is where clubs dream of reaching the higher divisions and potentially making a name for themselves in the football world.

The Schedule Insights

  1. Early Clashes Can Set the Tone

The first few weeks of any EFL season are crucial. Teams that start well often build momentum and confidence, while those struggling can struggle to climb back up the table. The fixtures early in the season can offer insights into a club’s prospects. Games against traditionally strong or weak opponents can be particularly telling.

  1. Festive Fixtures

The festive period, including Christmas and New Year, often sees a packed fixture list. How teams manage this hectic schedule can significantly impact their season. Some squads excel under pressure, while others struggle with injuries and fatigue. Keep an eye on clubs with strong depth in their squad during this period.

  1. The Run-in

As the season nears its conclusion, the run of fixtures can define a team’s fate. Teams aiming for promotion or battling relegation will be acutely aware of their final opponents. The schedule can either provide a favorable run-in or present a daunting challenge.

  1. Cup Competitions

EFL clubs also participate in various cup competitions, such as the FA Cup and EFL Cup (Carabao Cup). Success in these tournaments can affect league performance. If you make it to the top of the cup competition, you might have to cope with a lot of games coming up and you might be a bit tired, which could affect your league form.

Predictions

It’s tough to predict how the EFL season will go, but here are some wild predictions for the season ahead:

Championship

Promotion Hopefuls: Look out for Fulham, Sheffield United, and West Bromwich Albion as strong contenders for promotion to the Premier League.

Dark Horses: Don’t be surprised if clubs like Huddersfield Town or Queens Park Rangers make a push for the playoffs.

Relegation Battle: Wycombe Wanderers and Barnsley could face a tough battle to avoid relegation.

League One

Promotion Race: It’s safe to say Sunderland and Portsmouth will be pushing for promotion, while Ipswich Town is also in the mix.

Surprise Package: Watch out for Fleetwood Town, who could surprise many with a strong season.

Relegation Fight: Accrington Stanley and Crewe Alexandra may be in a relegation battle.

League Two

Promotion Contenders: Bradford City, Salford City, and Mansfield Town will likely compete for promotion.

Underdogs: Forest Green Rovers might spring a few surprises and challenge for promotion.

Relegation Threat: Scunthorpe United and Colchester United might have a tough time avoiding relegation.

In conclusion, the EFL promises another season filled with excitement, drama, and surprises. It’s impossible to say for sure what the EFL season will look like, but here are some insights and predictions that should give you an idea of what to look out for from your favourite teams in the EFL. As always, football fans can look forward to a rollercoaster ride of emotions throughout the season.

Hungary Seeks Euro Glory Behind Star Dominik Szoboszlai

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The Hungarian national football squad feels optimistic about their prospects for qualifying for Euro 2024 and beyond. With a mix of seasoned players and up-and-coming talent, the team has high hopes for its grit and inventiveness. After years in the international doldrums, Hungary has risen back towards regional significance and now stands just outside the top 30 in FIFA’s world rankings. The squad intends to create waves in the Euros and take the football-crazy country back to its former glory days with a well-balanced lineup and a good draw.

Dominik Szoboszlai, a 23-year-old offensive midfielder, is leading Hungary’s rise. The recently named captain of the national team has made a name for himself throughout the world with his ability to create plays for both his squad and Liverpool FC. Szoboszlai is without a doubt the most talented player in Hungary. He can score spectacular goals from a distance, weave passes that split defenses, and deftly dribble past opponents.

The group of people around Szoboszlai is the perfect blend of experience and energy. Veteran players with leadership, such as goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi, 33. Attila Szalai, a 25-year-old center defender, also contributes physical strength and maturity to help contain Hungary’s defense.

To counterbalance Hungary’s experience, a core of early 20s players, like left back Milos Kerkez (20) and midfielder Callum Styles (23), add vitality. This young and astute combination that manager Marco Rossi has crafted seems prepared to live up to the high standards set by the country.

Hungary has a distinguished football history in Europe, but the majority of its achievements occurred before the Euro competitions. The national team began a record-breaking 42-match winning streak without a setback in 1950–1956. Hungary destroyed England 6-3 at Wembley Stadium during that period, establishing a fluid structure and sophisticated passing technique decades ahead of their time.

After winning gold at the Olympics in 1952 and making it to the World Cup final in 1954, the Magical Magyars were defeated by West Germany’s “Miracle of Bern” comeback. Legend Ferenc Puskas led Hungary to the Euro 1960 final against the Soviet Union four years later. But they were defeated 2-1 by their politically fueled opponents, even though they started as favorites.

Hungary had inconsistent performance in Euro competitions following those heydays of success. They advanced to the quarterfinals in 1972 and finished third at the home Euros in 1964. But from 1976 to 1996, Hungary was unable to qualify for five consecutive European Championships. Hungary has progressed past the group stage in each of the last seven European Championships, but never beyond it.

Hungary was dealt a good hand in this round to qualify for Euro 2024. Along with Serbia, Montenegro, Lithuania, and Bulgaria, they placed in Group G. Hungary goes into the tournament as favorites for one of the two direct qualifying slots, although Serbia and its deadly striker Aleksandar Mitrović present a formidable opposition.

If Hungary is able to gain important victories in front of its fervent fan base at the new Puskas Arena in Budapest, home-field advantage may prove to be the difference. Supporters lovingly provide Hungary motivation to focus the attacking tenacity of their ancestors in order to take the top spot in Group G.

Hungary would compete in the intercontinental competition for the sixth time if they advance to Euro 2024 and fans are carrying heavy expectations towards the team’s success.

The financing of Hungary’s national team preparations is mostly dependent on sponsorship support. The Hungarian Football Federation has sponsorship agreements with a number of well-known Hungarian companies. In exchange, these partners receive branding exposure throughout all of Hungary’s digital and physical assets, with the most well-known example being the Adidas three-stripe symbol, which has been a part of squad uniforms since 1990.

More financial fuel is provided by sponsors like the gas firm MOL and the banking organization OTP. New partnerships with the digital wallet SimplePay (who continue to grow thanks to their partnership with some real money poker sites) and online sports platform TiPPMix have expanded financing sources for hiring more employees and updating infrastructure. Hungary has significantly relied on this corporate support to pay for the top-tier coaching, analytics, facilities, and travel necessary to compete with other European powerhouses.

Finesse captain Dominik Szoboszlai and Hungary’s well-balanced lineup seem prepared to relive former glory, with more resources supporting their endeavors. A return to the elite tournament’s latter stages would put the Magical Magyars in position to create some more unforgettable memories, provided the Red Wall supports them as they win their Euro group.

Hungary’s football history is filled with both victories and tragedies; from the Magical Magyars’ dominance over the world stage to several close calls on the biggest platforms. Leading the way is Dominik Szoboszlai, whose well-rounded team of enthusiasm and brilliance is now heading for new heights of success. This Hungarian lineup has the potential to replicate the offensive boldness of icons like Puskas if the fans inspire them every game. Hungary’s present trajectory promises to return this proud footballing nation to major Euro and World Cup prominence, something its fans so much want, even though dangers always lie in wait along the road.

Dominik Szoboszlai: can he lead Liverpool to the Premier League title?

szoboszlai

Ever since his £60 million arrival, Dominik Szoboszlai has taken the Premier League by storm.

Through the first eleven games of the 2023/2024 Premier League season, Szoboszlai has already found the back of the net and laid on two assists. A driving force behind Liverpool’s positive early domestic and European season form, those stats merely paint the briefest of pictures as to how good Szoboszlai has been since donning the famous Liverpool strip. 

Breathing new life into an aging Liverpool midfield, the Hungarian superstar has certainly impressed new manager Jurgen Klopp, with the German calling his new signing ‘a beast.’

Seemingly perfect for Klopp’s fast and frenetic counter-pressing style, Szoboszlai has already become one of the most important cogs in the Liverpool machine, seamlessly connecting the defence to the attack and wowing fans with his skill, endless energy and shooting abilities. 

So what can Szoboszlai and Liverpool achieve this year – could they win the Premier League? Here are our key talking points. 

Szoboszlai needs to continue to adapt to the Premier League

There’s a reason why the Premier League is the hardest league in the world. Not only can a handful of teams win the league, but there really are no easy matches. 

What makes winning the Premier League even harder is the schedule and Szoboszlai is about to experience his first winter in English football. 

November and December are often considered critical months in the English football calendar. With games played almost every three days, many new signings to the Premier League have struggled during this period and have dropped off in the second half of the season. 

A guaranteed starter for Liverpool, Szoboszlai currently ranks eighth in the league when it comes to the total distance run. 

Due to his intense running style and desire to win the ball back for his team, the impact of lots of games over a short period of time will hurt Szoboszlai more than most.

Already so important for Liverpool, if the Reds are going to be serious title contenders they can’t run the risk of their new midfield dynamo running out of gas. 

European commitments

One area that could greatly impact Szoboszlai’s abilities to impact Premier League games is Liverpool’s European campaign. 

Last season was a disaster for Liverpool, who despite having a squad more than capable of qualifying for the Champions League, missed out altogether and had to settle for a place in this season’s Europa League. 

Positioned by most online sportsbooks as the favourites for Europa League victory, no team has ever competed in Europe’s second tier competition and gone onto win the Premier League. 

With so many matches played across a gruelling schedule of Thursdays and Sunday’s, often it is the Premier League form that suffers as Liverpool will have to play teams who have had the luxury of rest.

With a deep and talented squad, Liverpool will have serious hopes of a deep run both domestically and in Europe, but Klopp will have to cleverly manage his squad if they are to do so. Although Szoboszlai will want to play every game, his minutes will need to be managed if he is to help Liverpool win some silverware during his first season. 

The Manchester City Machine

In Manchester City, not only will Szoboszlai face the best team in England, but arguably the entire world. 

City are red hot favourites to recapture both their Premier League and Champions League titles and ominously for the rest of their competition, they are already one point clear at the top of the Premier League and have already qualified from their Champions League group. 

However, over the last five years, the only side to consistently cause City problems has been Klopp’s Liverpool side. 

Before a ball was kicked this season, many pundits and fans believed that Liverpool were the team likely to push City in this year’s title race and that theory has largely been proved correct. 

Sitting just three points behind their rivals, Liverpool and Szoboszlai will be delighted as to how their season has started. 

However, as City have proved time and time again, they are simply a winning machine. If Liverpool are to seriously challenge they can ill afford any further slip ups over the busy festive period, as once City hit the front they will be hard to stop.

Hungary bids to host the Champions League final

puskas arena champions league 2026 russia match

The Hungarian Football Association has submitted its official bid to the European governing body for the 2026 or 2027 Champions League final by the 15 November deadline.

MLSZ spokesman Jenő Sipos told M1 news channel on Tuesday that the first two finals that could be bid for were the 2026 and 2027 finals, for which UEFA had received letters of intent from Hungary and Italy. Both countries submitted official bids by the 15 November deadline and will be evaluated by the European federation in February, which will also make comments and proposals.

UEFA will announce the hosts of the two BL finals next May.

Sándor Csányi, president of the Hungarian Football Association, indicated at the association’s general assembly in April that they would bid for the next available UEFA Champions League finals. According to him, the advantage is that UEFA is fully satisfied with the organisation of international matches, while the disadvantage is that there are much bigger stadiums.

“We will bid until we win,”

Csányi told the assembly.

As we wrote before, Budapest temporarily became the football capital of the world, when the Europa League final kicked off in front of a sold-out Puskás stadium, details HERE.

We also wrote about David Beckham arrival to Madame Tussauds Budapest.

Breaking: Hungary qualifies for European Championship! – PHOTOS

hungary bulgarian Euro 2024 Qualifier

The Hungarian national football team secured their place in the 2024 European Championship with a draw against Bulgaria tonight, on 16 November, in Sofia, Bulgaria.

With the success against Bulgaria, the Hungarian national team has already secured its participation in the European Championship. However, the qualification series is not over yet: on Sunday at 15:00, the national team will host Montenegro in the Puskás Arena, m4sport.hu reports.

According to Index, the Hungarian team played much better for most of the meeting. Still, they were losing 2-1 at the end of the 90 minutes. Then came the 97th minute and an own goal on the Bulgarian side. This own goal means a third European Championship in a row for Hungary.

European Championship qualification
Round 9
Group G

Bulgaria-Hungary 2-2 (1-1)
Sofia, Vasil Levski National Stadium, behind closed gates. Led by Stefanski (Poland)

BULGARIA: Naumov – V. Popov, A. Petkov, Antov, Nedyalkov – F. Krastev, Chochev (Atanasov, 43.), Gruev – Despodov (Rusev, 83.), Minchev (Kolev, 72.), Delev (S. Ivanov, 83.). Head coach: Ilian Iliev

HUNGARY: Dibusz – Botka (Kalmár, 81.), Lang, Szalai A. – Nego (Gazdag, 81.), Nagy Á., Styles, Kerkez – Szoboszlai D., Csoboth K. (Nagy Zs., 59.) – Ádám M. (Németh A., 74.). Head coach: Marco Rossi

Sent off: Antov (36.), Kerkez (57.)

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Budapest Honvéd FC vs. Paksi FC: A Showdown of Legends

paks kispest hungary football match

In one of the most highly anticipated clashes in Hungarian football, Budapest Honvéd FC and Paksi FC recently battled it out on the pitch, delivering an exhilarating performance that left fans on the edge of their seats. The match ended in a 2-2 draw after the full-time whistle, setting the stage for an intense penalty shootout in the fourth round. In the end, Paksi FC emerged victorious with a 5-4 win, securing their path to triumph in this unforgettable showdown.

Head-to-Head Stats

So, how does this affect the H2H stats of the teams?

The H2H stats can be a good metric to determine the outcome of any match. So far, Honvéd is coming out on top, but Paksi has also shown some remarkable feats over the past few years.

Whether it’s a casual football fan or someone who enjoys to bet on football, everyone will agree that Honvéd is the better team. The way Paksi won was, nevertheless, not a fluke but a sheer display of skill and determination. Before the game began, Honvéd were favored +330 while the Paksi had the odds of -200. The odds for a draw were placed somewhere in the middle, not very likely but neither unusual for a game like this.

Now, in total, the two teams have played 54 matches. Out of these, Honvéd has won 21 and Paksi 11. The other 22 have been drawn. In terms of total score, Honvéd has scored 70 and Paksi 56. The stadium and the fans also played a pivotal role. Any kind of football forecast takes all such information into account to come to a conclusion.

However, what was surprising this time was the stadium. In the Fehérvári úti Stadion, Paksi FC has had the upper hand, winning 8 out of 25 games and drawing 10, while losing to Honvéd 7 times. On the other hand, in the Bozsik József Stadion, Honvéd has won 14 out of 28 times while only losing to Paksi 2 times (12 matches have been drawn).

This was a match in the Bozsik.

This does skew things in the favor of Paksi, undoubtedly. But still, going into the future, there are hardly any doubts about Honvéd’s better form in the season.

Future games?

Long gone are the times of the club’s Italian Renaissance under Marco Rossi. But still, they are going strong with renewed vigor.

As the footballing world eagerly anticipates the next clashes of the titans in the Hungarian football scene, Budapest Honvéd FC and Paksi FC both promise further sparks, suspense, and standout moments in their upcoming matches against other opponents.

Budapest Honvéd FC boasts an attack known for its creativity and flair. Their ability to break down defenses and score stunning goals is a defining feature. On the other hand, Paksi FC has displayed resilience in their defensive setup. The contest between these offensive and defensive strategies will be a focal point.

In related news, the OTP Bank Liga ended with Paksi winning 2-1 over Honvéd, even though many more thought that it would be the other way around. Here, too, many football fans expected Paksi to succumb, but they held strong.

Bulgaria has blocked the Hungarian national team from playing their crucial match in front of spectators

fans szoboszlai

The Hungarian team will play against Bulgaria in Plovdiv instead of Sofia, and the Bulgarian Football Union has issued a press release that the match will be played in front of empty stands.

The host association, responsible for organising the national team’s European Championship qualifier on 16 November, has changed the venue and time of the Bulgaria-Hungary match for security reasons and has chosen to bar fans from entering the stadium.

The Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) has asked UEFA to allow the 16 November Bulgaria-Hungary EURO2024 qualifying match to be held in Plovdiv instead of Sofia, with a kick-off time of 6.45 p.m. instead of the originally announced 8.45 p.m. Hungarian time.

UEFA also agreed to hold the match behind closed gates due to the exceptional circumstances, so the match will be played without any fans in attendance.

The host association took this decision 10 days before the match to avoid any unwanted incidents or potential atrocities. The MLSZ, while regretting the inconvenience caused to fans who have already bought tickets for the match, will of course arrange for their refunds. Even though the decision was not taken by the Hungarian FA, it offers its apologies to Hungarian fans planning to attend the match. Ticket holders will be contacted by e-mail shortly.

As we wrote earlier, the Hungarian national team could not secure a place at the EC in Lithuania, details HERE.

Also, we wrote about the Israeli national football team relocating matches to Hungary, details HERE.

Hungarian footballer dies in fatal car accident in Austria

varga márkó

The Hungarian footballer who scored a goal in the weekend’s league round tragically lost his life in a car accident at dawn.

Márkó Varga, a footballer for ASKÖ DONAU in Linz, passed away in a devastating traffic accident on Saturday morning after being transported to the hospital.
The 26-year-old player contributed to ASKÖ’s 6-0 victory against SPG Union TTI St. Florian with an impressive game and a goal.

According to reports in Austrian newspapers, Márkó Varga’s car collided with a lorry on the A1 motorway in the early hours of Saturday under circumstances that remain unclear. The impact was so severe that the lorry was ejected from the car. Despite prompt medical attention from the ambulance, the footballer’s life could not be saved.

The footballer was expected home by his wife and 4-year-old son. TV2 Tények reported that Márkó Varga was struck by a Tunisian lorry driver en route to Vienna. The child’s car seat was dislodged during the accident, prompting a search by the police with the assistance of dogs and drones. It was later confirmed that the little boy was not with him at the time of the tragedy.

The 47-year-old Ukrainian driver of the car behind narrowly avoided a collision but was rear-ended by a fourth car driven by a 37-year-old Tajik driver.
Following this tragic incident, ASKÖ DONAU Linz’s website and social media page have been filled with expressions of mourning. The club’s communication team has changed the profile and cover pictures to black, and numerous condolences have poured in from both Austrians and Hungarians.

As we wrote earlier, these are the most dangerous motorways in Hungary.

Israeli national football team relocates matches to Hungary

Israeli football team

In a display of international sportsmanship, the Israeli national football team will be relocating its home matches to the Pancho Arena in Felcsút, Hungary, during the November matchdays of the European Championship qualifying series. This decision has been necessitated by the ongoing armed conflict between Palestine and Israel, which has made it impossible for the team to play in their native land. 

Israeli national team matches in Hungary

MLSZ reported that the Israeli national team will play two crucial matches in Hungary. On 15 November, they will face Switzerland, followed by a match against Romania on 18 November. Both of these encounters will take place at the Pancho Arena in Felcsút. These matches hold significant importance in the European Championship qualifying series. Thus, Hungary has offered its facilities as a neutral venue to ensure that the competition proceeds as planned.

Collaboration between associations

This act of solidarity is a result of collaborative efforts between the Israeli Football Association (IFA) and the Hungarian Football Association (MLSZ). The IFA will oversee the organisation of the matches and ticket sales for spectators. Additionally, the MLSZ will provide vital professional support to ensure the smooth preparation and execution of the games.

Global support

Furthermore, this gesture from the MLSZ aligns with expectations that UEFA and the Israeli Federation, along with their respective opponents, would come together to ensure the Israeli national team’s ability to compete. It exemplifies the international football community’s commitment to the spirit of fair play and solidarity.

In conclusion, the decision to host the Israeli national team matches in Hungary ensures that these important matches can proceed despite challenging circumstances.

David Beckham arrives to Madame Tussauds Budapest

David Beckham

Madame Tussauds Budapest is joined by a new sensation! The wax figure of one of the world’s most famous athletes, fashion icons and media stars, David Beckham, is coming to Hungary. The 115-time England international midfielder, former player of Manchester United and Real Madrid, and Messi’s current “boss” at the Miami team, will stay in Budapest for a few months.

Beckham’s figure is coming to Budapest from Madame Tussauds Prague as a guest and is expected to stay for several weeks. The Hungarian Madame Tussauds has 51 permanent figures, but from time to time exclusive guests also come to Palazzo Dorottya. Just recently, the wax figure of the world’s fastest sprinter, Usain Bolt, spent a few months here.

During the production of the figure of the footballer, David Beckham personally met the staff of Madame Tussauds, who had the opportunity to measure the world star’s body from head to toe. Thousands of biological data were recorded, from bone size to body weight to the athlete’s facial features. The figure – like the other wax figures – was made in a studio near London with the involvement of visual artists, digital specialists and other experts.

David Beckham’s body is like a combination of a fashion magazine and a biography. The athlete’s skin is covered with more than 60 tattoos, all of which have a special meaning. His first tattoo was his son’s name, but his body features his favourite number, seven, which was his jersey number, Chinese, Hebrew and Hindi characters, and the number 99, which refers to his marriage.

The soccer player married Victoria Beckham in 1999 and they raised four children together. The star couple watched the Tom Cruise movie Jerry Maguire on their first date, and their relationship has been unbroken for almost a quarter of a century.

Beckham not only has a legendary relationship with the singer but also with the royal family. He is very close to Prince William and is even a confidant of Princess Catherine. He can’t miss the important events of the royal family, for example, he attended the wedding of Prince Harry as well. The athlete is a great admirer of Queen Elizabeth II, he stood in line for 13 hours to pay tribute to her in front of the monarch’s coffin. As a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, Beckham has been fighting for the acknowledgement of children’s rights for years.

The 115-time England international midfielder will be among friends in the Madame Tussauds Budapest production. Another popular figure of the exhibition, Lionel Messi, is currently playing for Beckham’s team in Miami, and Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce also shot a joint commercial with the star.

Guests can meet the style icon athlete in a suit and tie in the interactive cafe part of the production. He is waiting for visitors standing on a red carpet, surrounded by photographers, so every fan can feel like a real star while standing next to him.

David Beckham
Photo: Press release