The stakes are high as Hungary and Ireland face off in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Sunday, November 16, 2025. The match at Puskás Aréna in Budapest will determine which team advances to the playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.
How to Watch
For fans in Ireland, the match will be broadcast live on RTÉ 2, with coverage beginning at 1pm. Streaming will also be available on RTÉ Player. In the UK, the game will be available on Amazon Prime Video. For viewers in the USA, Fox Sports 1 and fuboTV will carry the match. The game kicks off at 2:00 p.m. GMT.
Odds
Bookmakers favor Hungary to win. According to Oddspedia, Hungary's odds to win are around 1.68. Oddschecker lists Hungary at 19/20, while Ireland is at 10/3, and a draw at 5/2. Other sources give slightly different odds, but the consensus is that Hungary is the favorite. AK Bets has Hungary to win at 17/20, Coral has Ireland to win at 17/5, and Bet365 offers 27/10 for a draw.
WCQ Preview
Hungary currently sits in second place in Group F with 8 points, while Ireland is in third with 7 points. A draw would be enough for Hungary to secure a playoff spot, but Ireland needs a win to leapfrog them.
Hungary has been relatively consistent in the qualifiers, with two wins, two draws, and one loss. They edged past Armenia 1-0 in their most recent match. Ireland is coming off a momentous 2-0 victory against Portugal. Troy Parrott's two goals in that match have made him a national hero.
The two sides previously met in Dublin, where they drew 2-2. Hungary led 2-0 before Ireland rallied to equalize after a Hungarian player was sent off. In their 14 previous encounters, Hungary has won four times, Ireland three, and there have been six draws.
Team News
Hungary is expected to field a similar lineup to the one that defeated Armenia. Barnabás Varga, who scored the winning goal in that match, will likely lead the attack. Dominik Szoboszlai will captain the team and play a key creative role.
Ireland will likely stick with the same team that triumphed over Portugal. Troy Parrott is expected to start upfront, supported by Chiedozie Ogbene. Séamus Coleman will captain the side. However, Evan Ferguson will miss the match due to an ankle injury.
Predictions
Given Hungary's home advantage and need for only a draw, they are favored. However, Ireland's confidence is high after their win against Portugal. A low-scoring, tense affair is anticipated. One prediction suggests a 1-1 draw. Another predicts a 1-0 victory for Ireland.
Ultimately, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for both teams' World Cup aspirations.
