Hungary vs Portugal – Clash of Momentum and Redemption
Hungary and Portugal are set to meet in a high-stakes World Cup qualifying clash in Budapest, and the anticipation could not be higher. On one side, Portugal enters the game full of confidence, unbeaten and brimming with attacking flair. On the other, Hungary seeks redemption after a painful collapse against Ireland that has left both fans and players frustrated.
Hungary’s recent outing in Dublin was dramatic, to say the least. They stormed into a two-goal lead within the opening 15 minutes, with Barnabás Varga and Roland Sallai on the scoresheet. But what looked like a perfect night quickly unraveled. Sallai, who had given Hungary that crucial cushion, was sent off early in the second half for a rash challenge, leaving his team short-handed. Ireland seized the momentum, fought back, and Hungary had to settle for a disappointing 2-2 draw. Manager Marco Rossi has since been under pressure, with criticism mounting that his side struggles to hold onto leads in critical moments. Now, without Sallai available, Rossi must reshuffle his squad. All eyes will be on Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai to inspire the midfield and on Varga, who is enjoying a prolific season with Ferencváros, to carry the attacking threat.
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Portugal, in contrast, arrive with a perfect record and a morale-boosting demolition of Armenia. That match was dominated by none other than Cristiano Ronaldo, who once again stole the spotlight with two goals, taking his international tally to 140. At 40 years old, Ronaldo continues to defy time, still chasing milestones and still inspiring his teammates. João Félix chipped in with a brace of his own, while João Cancelo added to the tally, as Roberto Martínez’s side cruised to a 5-0 win. Even with Rafael Leão and Diogo Dalot sidelined by injuries, Portugal look stacked with talent. Bruno Fernandes is expected to return to the starting lineup, giving Martínez yet another world-class option in midfield.
The form books tell a clear story. Hungary has just one win in their last five matches, a run that includes multiple late heartbreaks. Portugal, meanwhile, are riding the wave of four straight wins, including a Nations League title secured against Spain earlier this summer. That momentum makes them the clear favorites going into the tie.
The clash at the Puskas Arena promises to be a fascinating contest of contrasting moods—Hungary desperate for a turnaround in front of their home fans, and Portugal eager to extend their flawless run. With Ronaldo still rewriting history, and with Szoboszlai tasked with leading his nation, it is a game that carries weight not only in the standings but also in national pride. Football fans in the UK can catch the action live on Amazon Prime Video when the whistle blows in Budapest.
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