Szoboszlai gutted after Hungary exit | OneFootball

Ireland’s Dramatic Triumph Over Hungary

Hungary’s Setback in Budapest

Dominik Szoboszlai endured one of the most painful nights of his international career as Hungary saw their World Cup play off hopes slip away in dramatic fashion. Ireland’s 3-2 win in Budapest, delivered by a stunning Troy Parrott hat trick, felt like a seismic moment in this qualification campaign and a reminder of how unforgiving elite football can be.

The Express detailed how Parrott equalised twice, first from the penalty spot after Daniel Lukacs had nodded Hungary ahead, then again after Barnabas Varga’s brilliant first half strike. In a frantic finale, Parrott secured a remarkable win in the sixth minute of added time, a moment that he later described as “the biggest feeling of my career so far”. His decisive contribution ensured Ireland kept their play off hopes alive, while Hungary were left shattered.

Photo: IMAGO

Szoboszlai’s Influence and Ireland’s Resilience

Szoboszlai, who created Hungary’s opening goal with a pass to Milos Kerkez before crossing for Lukacs to score, produced a display full of drive, technique and maturity. He was later seen consoling Kerkez, his Liverpool teammate, after the final whistle marked the end of Hungary’s hopes of a first World Cup appearance since 1986.

Ireland’s route back into the contest was built on persistence and opportunism. After a VAR check, Norwegian referee Espen Eskas penalised Attila Szalai for a foul on Chiedozie Ogbene, which Parrott converted with calm precision. As the report noted, “Ireland were gifted a golden chance to equalise”, yet they still had to show composure to take it.

Momentum Swings and Late Drama

Hungary’s approach shifted as they attempted to manage the game, but Caoimhin Kelleher produced crucial interventions, including smart stops to deny Roland Sallai and later Szoboszlai. Ireland’s direct play unsettled Hungary and when Adam Idah replaced the injured Ogbene, the visitors retained their attacking thrust.

Varga’s rocket from 20 yards restored Hungary’s lead, yet Ireland refused to fold. Parrott’s delightful chip for 2-2 after controlling Finn Azaz’s lofted pass showed exceptional confidence. With both sides pressing in stoppage time, it was Liam Scales’ knockdown and Parrott’s sharp finish that completed a night of extraordinary drama.

Ireland March On

Ireland now advance to the March play offs, having sealed second place behind Portugal, while Hungary are left to reflect on missed chances and the brilliance of Parrott. As one Ireland player reportedly said, “we knew something special might happen if we kept believing”.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Irish supporters will feel absolutely electrified by this result. Parrott producing a hat trick on a night of massive pressure will spark real optimism that Ireland can carry this belief into the play offs. Fans will be buzzing at how ruthless he looked in front of goal and how composed he remained in the decisive moments.

Hungarian fans, meanwhile, will be devastated. There was genuine hope that this squad, built around stars like Szoboszlai and the emerging Milos Kerkez, was finally ready to return to the biggest stage. Supporters will be concerned that a golden opportunity has slipped away, especially after leading twice and appearing in control for long spells.

Liverpool supporters watching Szoboszlai will feel a mix of pride and frustration. His performance was full of class, energy and leadership, yet his efforts counted for nothing in the end. Many will be hopeful that this setback strengthens his resolve ahead of the Premier League run in under Arne Slot.

For Ireland, this feels like a moment that could redefine confidence and expectations. For Hungary, it feels like a chapter of regret. The emotional swing between both sets of fans after Parrott’s late winner will linger long in memory.