Portugal Holds On for 3-2 Win Over Hungary in World Cup Qualifier
Portugal secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Hungary in a World Cup qualifier, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a record-breaking penalty.
Hungary improved significantly after falling behind and remarkably leveled the score when Nego's cross bounced awkwardly...
Portugal secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Hungary in Budapest, putting themselves in a strong position in their quest for a seventh consecutive World Cup appearance. Despite dominating possession and creating scoring opportunities, Portugal trailed behind with 20 minutes gone after Barnabas Varga's header gave Hungary the lead.
Bernardo Silva equalized for Portugal with a brilliant strike in the 36th minute, leveling the score at 1-1. The game took a decisive turn after 58 minutes when Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty, slotting home his 39th World Cup qualifying goal and equaling the record for most goals by any man in qualifiers. This goal put Portugal ahead for the first time in the match.
Hungary refused to give up, and their efforts paid off when Varga scored his second goal in the 84th minute, heading home to make it 2-2. However, just two minutes later, Joao Cancelo sealed the win for Portugal with a stunning first-time shot from outside the box after a precise pass from Bernardo Silva. This dramatic victory puts Portugal top of Group F with six points from two games.
Zsolt Nagy delivered a precise cross from the left flank, finding Barnabas Varga, who headed the ball into the net off the post. This well-worked goal gave Hungary the lead, showcasing their attacking prowess.
Despite their relentless efforts, Portugal's luck didn't seem to change, even as they began to find their target. Cristiano Ronaldo was visibly frustrated when his close-range shot was deflected wide by Hungary's Balazs Toth. Joao Neves suffered a similar fate just moments later, as his attempt was also deflected wide.
Portugal finally found the breakthrough they had been working towards, thanks to a fortunate touch from Joao Cancelo. Bernardo Silva capitalized on the opportunity, controlling the ball in space and unleashing a powerful shot into the top corner. This goal gave Portugal newfound momentum heading into the halftime break.
After the restart, Portugal continued to apply pressure and eventually took the lead in the 58th minute. Loic Nego was penalized for a handball in the box, and Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to take the penalty. With no hesitation, Ronaldo scored the penalty, slotting it into the bottom left corner. This goal not only gave Portugal the lead but also made Ronaldo the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup qualifiers.
Hungary improved significantly after falling behind and remarkably leveled the score when Nego's cross bounced awkwardly, allowing Barnabas Varga to nod the ball into the net for his second goal. The Puskas Arena erupted in jubilation as the home team equalized.
However, Hungary's joy was short-lived, as Portugal responded decisively just two minutes later. Bernardo Silva's precise pass found Joao Cancelo, who swept the ball into the net from the edge of the area, securing a 3-2 victory for Portugal.
Hungary's prospects of securing a spot in their first World Cup since 1986 through the group stage appear slim, given their current standings with just one point from two games. Their upcoming fixtures against Portugal and Armenia will be crucial in determining their fate. Although the odds are against them, Hungary could still aim for a playoff spot by capitalizing on favorable matchups, potentially against Armenia and the Republic of Ireland.
Portugal, known for their strong national team despite never having won a World Cup, looks poised to qualify for the 2026 tournament. With six points from two games, they currently top Group F. Portugal's upcoming fixtures include matches against Hungary and the Republic of Ireland, which will be vital in maintaining their lead. Additionally, Portugal has high hopes of hosting the tournament as titleholders in 2030.
No comments:
Leave comment here