Ireland Beat Hungary 3-2 As Troy Parrott Hat-Trick Secures World Cup Playoff Spot
The Republic of Ireland produced one of their most memorable away performances in recent qualifying history with a dramatic 3-2 win over Hungary on 16 November 2025. The match, played at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, saw Ireland come from behind twice before Troy Parrott completed an unforgettable hat-trick in stoppage time.
This victory secured Ireland a place in the UEFA play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and delivered a moment that will be remembered for years within Irish football. The match showcased character, resilience and momentum at a crucial stage in the qualifying campaign.
Hungary Strike Early but Ireland Respond Through Parrott
Hungary began the match with confidence and intensity. In just the 3rd minute, they opened the scoring from a well-worked short corner routine. Dominik Szoboszlai delivered the ball towards the near post, where Daniel Lukács flicked a header into the net. The early goal lifted the home supporters and gave Hungary complete control in the opening stages.
Ireland reacted by pushing higher up the pitch and trying to disrupt Hungary’s rhythm. Their breakthrough arrived in the 15th minute when Chiedozie Ogbene was fouled inside the penalty area by Ádám Szalai. The referee pointed to the spot, giving Ireland a crucial chance to level the match. Troy Parrott stepped forward and calmly converted the penalty, bringing the score to 1-1 and giving Ireland renewed confidence.
However, Hungary regained control later in the half. In the 37th minute, they restored their lead through Barnabás Varga. A floated delivery into the box found Varga, who brought the ball down on his chest before firing a half-volley into the top corner. It was an impressive finish and gave Hungary a 2-1 lead heading into half-time.
Ireland Struggle Before Finding Late Momentum
Ireland entered the second half needing to change the pace of the game. Hungary held their shape defensively and continued to create pressure through Szoboszlai and Varga. Several times, Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher was called into action, making critical saves to prevent the deficit from increasing. These interventions kept Ireland within reach, even as Hungary looked the more confident side for long spells.
The turning point for Ireland came in the final stages of the match. With only ten minutes left, Ireland finally found the breakthrough they needed. In the 80th minute, Finn Azaz played a well-weighted pass into the path of Parrott, who controlled it smoothly before placing the ball past the goalkeeper. The equaliser brought Ireland back to 2-2 and introduced tension into the final minutes.
Hungary attempted to counter with attacking substitutions, but their defensive structure began to show signs of fatigue. Ireland sensed an opportunity as the game opened up, particularly with long balls and fast transitions becoming more effective.
Stoppage Time Drama: Parrott Completes His Hat-Trick
As the match entered stoppage time, Ireland pushed aggressively for a winner. The decisive moment came in the 96th minute. A long ball from goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher was met by Liam Scales, who rose above his marker to nod the ball into the path of Troy Parrott. The striker reacted quickly, darting between the defenders and prodding the ball past the Hungary goalkeeper.
The goal completed Parrott’s hat-trick and sparked wild celebrations among the Irish players. It also sealed a 3-2 victory that confirmed Ireland’s place in the World Cup play-offs. The Irish bench erupted, with emotions running high after one of the most dramatic finishes of the qualifying campaign.
Standout Performers for Ireland
Troy Parrott
Parrott delivered a performance that will be remembered as one of the most important of his international career. His composure from the penalty spot, technical sharpness for the second goal and instinctive decision-making for the winner defined the match. His hat-trick not only lifted Ireland to victory but also secured their playoff qualification.
Caoimhín Kelleher
Kelleher’s contribution was equally vital. Hungary created several strong chances, especially after taking the lead twice. Kelleher made key saves throughout the second half, keeping Ireland in the match and giving them the platform to turn the game around. His long ball that started the move for the winning goal showed awareness and decisive play.
Liam Scales
The Celtic defender produced an important moment late in the match. His aerial presence allowed him to win the header that assisted the third goal. His late-game composure played a notable role in Ireland’s final push.
Finn Azaz
Azaz’s assist for Parrott’s second goal provided Ireland with the quality they needed in midfield. His vision and quick decision-making under pressure helped shift the momentum.
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Hungary’s Key Contributors
Daniel Lukács
Lukács scored the opening goal with a clever flicked header, which set the tone for Hungary’s early dominance. His positioning and awareness gave Ireland problems in the first half.
Barnabás Varga
Varga’s first-half strike showcased excellent technique and finishing ability. His chest control and half-volley into the top corner gave Hungary belief heading toward the break.
Despite these strong individual performances, Hungary struggled to manage the late pressure from Ireland.
Tactical Breakdown
Hungary’s tactical plan revolved around quick ball movement, set-piece routines and maintaining defensive compactness. Their early goal reflected detailed preparation, and their first-half organisation made it difficult for Ireland to break through.
Ireland, meanwhile, relied on counter-attacks, strong wing play and pressing in key midfield zones. The decision to push their defensive line higher in the second half helped them recover possession more effectively. In the final stages, Ireland benefited from direct play, especially long balls aimed at exploiting Hungary’s tired back line.
The biggest tactical shift came in the last ten minutes, when Ireland committed more players forward and played with greater urgency. Hungary attempted to defend deeper, but this approach backfired as the Irish attack gained momentum.
What This Result Means for Ireland
This victory places Ireland in the UEFA play-offs for the 2026 World Cup. More importantly, it gives the squad a lift in confidence after a tough qualifying campaign. The ability to overturn a match twice, away from home, demonstrates resilience and progress.
Troy Parrott’s performance also adds positivity to Ireland’s attacking options. Meanwhile, the leadership shown by players like Kelleher and Scales signals strong development heading into the crucial matches ahead.
What This Result Means for Hungary
For Hungary, the defeat is a significant setback. Leading twice and controlling long periods of the match, they will be disappointed with the final result. Their inability to withstand late pressure raises questions about match management and defensive organisation.
Hungary’s strong first-half performance showed potential, but the second-half decline will be a concern as qualification scenarios narrow.
Ireland’s 3-2 win over Hungary was one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Troy Parrott’s last-gasp hat-trick sealed a famous victory and ensured Ireland’s place in the play-offs. It was a night that highlighted teamwork, determination and clutch performances under pressure.
Hungary, despite a promising start, were unable to maintain control in the second half. The result will be difficult for them to accept, especially given their early dominance.
For Ireland, this win marks a turning point and sets the stage for a crucial next phase in their journey toward the World Cup.
FAQs
Q1. What was the final score between Ireland and Hungary?
A. Ireland won the match 3-2.
Q2. Who scored the hat-trick for Ireland?
A. Troy Parrott scored all three goals for Ireland.
Q3. Where was the match played?
A. The match took place at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest.
Q4. Why was this match important for Ireland?
A. The win secured Ireland a place in the UEFA play-offs for the 2026 World Cup.
Q5. Who scored for Hungary?
A. Daniel Lukács and Barnabás Varga scored Hungary’s two goals.
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