Portugal vs Hungary Prediction & Betting Tips (14 October)

Portugal enters the fixture riding a wave of momentum, having secured back-to-back wins over Armenia and Hungary in September. Roberto Martínez’s squad is brimming with talent, blending youth and experience. Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, continues to defy age with three goals in two qualifiers, while Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva orchestrate the midfield with precision. However, injuries have disrupted the setup—João Neves and João Cancelo are sidelined, prompting tactical reshuffles. Lazio’s Nuno Tavares joins the squad, and Diogo Dalot is expected to start at right-back. Portugal’s recent Nations League triumph has already guaranteed them a playoff spot, but they’re gunning for direct qualification.

Hungary, meanwhile, finds itself in a precarious position. After a dramatic 2-2 draw against Ireland and a narrow 3-2 loss to Portugal, Marco Rossi’s men are desperate for a turnaround. The team has struggled to convert home advantage into results, winless in their last six matches in Budapest. Suspensions to Roland Sallai and Barnabás Varga further complicate matters, leaving Dominik Szoboszlai to shoulder attacking duties, possibly as a false nine. The midfield trio of András Schäfer, Callum Styles, and Alex Tóth will be tasked with controlling tempo, while defensive stalwarts like Willi Orbán and Attila Szalai aim to contain Portugal’s firepower.

Both teams are navigating injury setbacks and tactical adjustments, but the stakes couldn’t be higher. Portugal’s depth and form suggest they’ll dominate possession and create chances, while Hungary’s resilience and Szoboszlai’s creativity offer hope for a counterpunch. The fixture also marks a test of leadership—Ronaldo’s locker room influence remains vital, and Rossi’s job security hinges on results. With Hungary needing points to stay in contention and Portugal eager to seal qualification early, expect a tense, high-tempo encounter.

As for the scoreline, the smart money is on Portugal edging Hungary once again, this time with a 2-1 victory. The Selecao’s attacking trio—Ronaldo, Pedro Neto, and Francisco Conceição—should find enough openings to breach Hungary’s backline, while Szoboszlai may snatch a consolation goal. It won’t be a walk in the park, but Portugal’s winning mentality and tactical edge should see them through.