World Cup Qualifier: Ireland Comes Back from 2-0 Down to Draw with Hungary

Ireland stuns Hungary with dramatic 2-2 draw in WCQ

The Republic of Ireland secured a crucial 2-2 draw against 10-man Hungary in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.

Ireland's struggles continued as Sallai proved a thorn in their side, while Hungary's defense remained resolute...

Ireland staged an impressive comeback to draw 2-2 against 10-man Hungary in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match. The visitors took a swift lead just two minutes into the game when Barnabás Varga clinically finished a pass from Callum Styles, despite being closely marked by Irish defender Dara O'Shea.

Despite the rocky start, Ireland showed resilience and determination, eventually finding their footing and leveling the score. The team's ability to bounce back from adversity was on full display, echoing the spirit of other teams that have fought back from tough positions to secure crucial points, like Leicester City's 2-2 draw against Brighton.

Ireland attempted to respond with shots from Finn Azaz and Sammie Szmodics, but both efforts went wide of the target. Despite surviving a scare when Hungary's Martin Adam hit the woodwork, Ireland's troubles deepened in the 15th minute. Roland Sallai rose high to head Dominik Szoboszlai's corner into the far post, doubling Hungary's lead.

Ireland's struggles continued as Sallai proved a thorn in their side, while Hungary's defense remained resolute. Styles and goalkeeper Dénes Dibusz made crucial blocks to deny Josh Cullen and Azaz, keeping Ireland's hopes at bay. The visitors' solid defensive display ensured they maintained their two-goal advantage, putting Ireland on the back foot.

Willi Orbán thwarted Ireland's attack by blocking Ryan Manning's cross and shot. Matt Doherty and Evan Ferguson also had chances to score, but their efforts went wide. The first half was filled with excitement, featuring impressive saves from both goalkeepers. Caoimhín Kelleher made a stunning save to deny Roland Sallai, while Hungarian goalkeeper Dénes Dibusz palmed away a powerful shot from Evan Ferguson.

We comeback from two goals down to pick up a point 👏 pic.twitter.com/xClqeCNjHR

— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) September 6, 2025

The tide turned in Ireland's favor just four minutes into the second half. Dénes Dibusz failed to convincingly clear Ryan Manning's free-kick, keeping the ball alive long enough for Evan Ferguson to score. This goal marked a crucial moment in the match, as Ireland fought back from being down 2-0 to eventually secure a 2-2 draw against Hungary in their 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

The Aviva Stadium's atmosphere transformed as Ireland's fans gained confidence, especially after Roland Sallai's red card. The Hungarian player was sent off four minutes after a contentious moment when he retaliated to not being given a free kick by charging into Dara O'Shea. This pivotal moment shifted the game's momentum in Ireland's favor.

Key Moments 

• Hungary's Second Goal: Roland Sallai's header from Dominik Szoboszlai's corner extended Hungary's lead.

• Ireland's Missed Chances: Finn Azaz and Sammie Szmodics failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

• Hungary's Defensive Solidity: Styles and Dénes Dibusz made crucial blocks to deny Ireland's attackers.

• Bendegúz Bolla's Attempts: The Hungarian winger had four attempts to score, but Ireland's defense held strong.

• Ryan Manning's Header: Manning went close with a header, but it didn't find its mark.

• Ireland's Relentless Pressure: The Irish team maintained their pressure, creating scoring opportunities, but Nathan Collins' efforts were off target twice.

• Dibusz's Spectacular Save: Hungarian goalkeeper Dénes Dibusz made an impressive save on Finn Azaz's header, showcasing his skills.

The match ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw, with Adam Idah scoring the equalizing goal in the 90th+3 minute. This result keeps both teams in contention for World Cup qualification.

Highlights 

Early Goal: Hungary's Barnabás Varga scored within two minutes, capitalizing on a defensive lapse.

Ireland's Resilience: The team regrouped and fought back to equalize, showcasing their determination.

WCQ Implications: This draw keeps Ireland in contention for a World Cup spot, while Hungary remains winless in their last seven head-to-head matches against Ireland.