Budapest, Hungary – In a heart-stopping World Cup qualifier at the Puskás Aréna, the Republic of Ireland secured a play-off spot with a sensational 3-2 victory over Hungary on November 16, 2025. The hero of the hour was undoubtedly Troy Parrott, whose hat-trick, including a dramatic 96th-minute winner, sparked scenes of wild jubilation among the Irish contingent and left the home crowd in stunned silence.
The 23-year-old AZ Alkmaar striker, already a hero after his two goals helped defeat Portugal on Thursday, described the night as the best of his life. Visibly emotional, Parrott told RTÉ, "I'm really, really emotional. They're tears of joy... I don't think I'll ever have a better night in my whole life". He added, "It is a fairytale. You can't even dream about something like that. I have no words to describe the emotions right now".
Ireland had to twice come from behind to seal the victory. Hungary took an early lead in the 4th minute through Daniel Lukács, following a short corner routine. Ireland responded swiftly, earning a penalty in the 14th minute when Szalai fouled Ogbene. Parrott stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner, leveling the score.
Hungary regained the lead in the 36th minute when Barnabás Varga found the net with a floated delivery from Kerkez. As the game wore on, tension mounted, with Ireland needing a win to secure the runner-up position in Group F after Portugal.
With just ten minutes of normal time remaining, Parrott equalized again, making the most of Finn Azaz's pass. Then, deep into stoppage time, Liam Scales headed the ball down perfectly for Parrott, who reacted quickly to steer home the winning goal.
Parrott's late heroics capped off an unforgettable week, having scored five goals in two games. His performance was all the more remarkable considering he might not have started either game had Evan Ferguson not been injured. Reflecting on the team's resilience, Parrott noted, "I think everyone wrote us off at the start of the group... There's always a chance and we've taken the chance".
The victory means Ireland progress to the World Cup qualification play-offs in March. The play-offs will feature twelve group runners-up, along with the four best-ranked group winners from the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League who did not finish in the top two of their qualifying group.
