Hungary vs Ireland Prediction & Betting Tips (16 November)

Hungary enter their crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier against Ireland with momentum and confidence after a series of strong performances in recent months. Marco Rossi’s side have shown resilience in Group F, highlighted by their 1-0 victory over Armenia on November 13, where Barnabás Varga scored the decisive goal. Earlier in October, Hungary held Portugal to a 2-2 draw in Lisbon, a result that underlined their ability to compete against Europe’s elite. Their consistency has been evident, with a 2-0 home win over Armenia in Budapest and a narrow 3-2 loss to Portugal in September. The squad has been bolstered by the leadership of Dominik Szoboszlai, who continues to be a creative force, while Roland Sallai and Bendegúz Bolla have contributed significantly in attack. With Hungary sitting in a strong position in the group, this fixture against Ireland could prove decisive in shaping their qualification path.

Ireland, meanwhile, have reignited their World Cup hopes with a stunning 2-0 victory over Portugal in Dublin on November 13. Troy Parrott was the hero of the night, scoring twice in the first half, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card added drama to a memorable evening at the Aviva Stadium. That win came just weeks after Ireland suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Armenia, but the bounce-back against Portugal has restored belief in Heimir Hallgrímsson’s squad. Ireland had previously drawn 2-2 with Hungary in September, showing their ability to compete head-to-head with their upcoming opponents. The squad has seen new faces like Kevin O’Toole earn call-ups, while established players such as Dara O’Shea and Josh Cullen continue to provide defensive stability. With Ireland trailing Hungary by just a point in the group standings, this clash in Budapest is set to be a pivotal encounter.

Looking at the recent form of both teams, Hungary appear slightly more consistent, with three wins and two draws in their last six qualifiers. Their ability to grind out results, particularly away from home, has been crucial in keeping them in contention. Ireland, on the other hand, have been unpredictable, mixing impressive victories with disappointing defeats. Their triumph over Portugal was a statement performance, but questions remain about their ability to replicate that level of intensity in consecutive matches. Both teams have shown defensive solidity, with Hungary conceding only sparingly in their last fixtures, while Ireland managed to shut out Portugal entirely. The tactical battle between Rossi’s structured approach and Hallgrímsson’s willingness to take risks will be fascinating, especially given the stakes involved in securing qualification.

Prediction for this match leans toward Hungary, who have the advantage of playing at home and have demonstrated greater consistency in recent months. Ireland’s shock win over Portugal cannot be ignored, but Hungary’s disciplined style and ability to capitalize on key moments could prove decisive. With Szoboszlai orchestrating play and Varga in fine scoring form, Hungary are well positioned to edge this contest. Ireland will likely put up a spirited fight, but their inconsistency may cost them in Budapest. The expected outcome is a narrow Hungarian victory, with the correct score prediction set at 1:0, reflecting the tight margins and defensive strength both teams have displayed throughout their qualifying campaigns.