Portugal's World Cup Qualification Hopes Delayed After Thrilling Draw

Ronaldo shines but Hungary's resilience secures point in Group 

Cristiano Ronaldo's brace wasn't enough for Portugal as Hungary's Dominik Szoboszlai scored a 92nd-minute equalizer, keeping Portugal's World Cup qualification hopes uncertain.

Cristiano Ronaldo's relentless pressure paid off when he scored a brilliant equalizer...

Cristiano Ronaldo's brace wasn't enough to secure a win for Portugal, as Hungary's Dominik Szoboszlai scored a dramatic 92nd-minute equalizer, resulting in a 2-2 draw. This late goal delays Portugal's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

Prior to this match, Portugal had started their Group F campaign with a perfect record, accumulating maximum points from their first three fixtures. However, Hungary's resilient performance ensured the Portuguese wouldn't clinch their World Cup spot just yet.

Portugal's dream start was shattered when Attila Szalai headed in a corner kick in the 8th minute, giving Hungary an early lead. However, the Portuguese team quickly regained composure and pushed for an equalizer.

Cristiano Ronaldo's relentless pressure paid off when he scored a brilliant equalizer, tapping home from Nélson Semedo's precise cross. This goal marked Ronaldo's 142nd international goal, showcasing his exceptional skill.

The match continued with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Hungary's early lead was soon canceled out, and Portugal's pursuit of victory was evident. The game was intense, with both teams fighting for every ball

The first half saw both teams creating scoring opportunities, but Portugal took the lead in stoppage time. Nuno Mendes delivered a precise cross that Cristiano Ronaldo volleyed home with clinical precision from six yards, completing the turnaround.

In the second half, Portugal had chances to extend their lead, with Pedro Neto's angled strike being blocked by Tóth. Meanwhile, Diogo Costa made a crucial save to deny Dominik Szoboszlai's effort, keeping the scoreline at 2-1.

As Portugal sought to seal a seventh consecutive home win, they intensified their attack around the hour mark. Rúben Dias unleashed a powerful long-range shot that hit the post, while Bruno Fernandes' follow-up strike hit the woodwork, sparing Hungary from further trouble.

Hungary, however, soon had Portugal reeling when Attila Szalai's close-range header crashed against the bar, giving the Portuguese side a crucial reprieve. The match was hanging in the balance, with both teams creating scoring opportunities.

⏹️ 90+3' TERMINA A PARTIDA EM ALVALADE ⏰#FazHistória | #PORHUN #WCQ pic.twitter.com/dkyTqFR9MD

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) October 14, 2025

In a dramatic turn of events, Portugal's pressure almost paid off, but Hungary's resilience and some good fortune kept them in the game, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

Hungary's relentless attack finally paid off in the first minute of stoppage time when Dominik Szoboszlai scored from Dániel Lukács' cross, securing a 2-2 draw. This late equalizer earned Hungary a valuable point.

The draw means Hungary stays ahead of the Republic of Ireland in Group F. For Portugal, however, the result means they will have to wait until November to confirm their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.