Ireland vs Hungary Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 6/9/2025

Ireland’s long road back to the World Cup begins with a crucial Group F clash against Hungary at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on September 6. With both nations eyeing a strong start, the fixture has all the makings of a tense and finely balanced contest.

Ireland’s Resurgence Under Hallgrímsson

Ireland, absent from the World Cup since 2002, enters the campaign with renewed optimism under head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson. The former Iceland and Jamaica manager has brought tactical discipline and a sense of belief, reflected in Ireland’s recent form—four wins from their last nine games, including a double triumph over Bulgaria in the Nations League playoffs.

Defensively, Brentford’s Nathan Collins has stepped up as captain in the absence of Seamus Coleman, while goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who recently moved from Liverpool to Brentford, will be key in keeping Hungary at bay. Ireland’s confidence is further boosted by their 2–1 friendly victory over Hungary earlier this year, a result that offers both psychological advantage and proof that they can unsettle Marco Rossi’s side.

Hungary’s Balance of Experience and Youth

Hungary, meanwhile, arrive with equal determination. Drawn from the second pot, they face a tough group and cannot afford early slips. Manager Marco Rossi has molded his team into disciplined competitors, capable of frustrating stronger opponents—as seen in their recent Nations League draw with Germany.

The spotlight will inevitably fall on captain Dominik Szoboszlai, whose Premier League performances for Liverpool have made him one of Europe’s most exciting midfielders. Around him, Hungary’s setup blends experienced figures such as Ádám Szalai with emerging talents like Milos Kerkez, who adds pace and drive from the flanks. Their tactical strength lies in set pieces and swift counterattacks, areas Ireland will need to defend with precision.

Prediction

Both teams know the margins are slim in a group that may also include European heavyweights like Portugal or Denmark. For Ireland, home advantage and a vocal Aviva Stadium crowd could be decisive, while Hungary will look to their technical quality to control tempo and punish mistakes.

Given Ireland’s momentum and resilience under Hallgrímsson, a narrow win seems within reach. Collins’ defensive leadership and Kelleher’s presence in goal should provide the foundation, while young striker Evan Ferguson or winger Chiedozie Ogbene could deliver a decisive moment late on.

Final Prediction: Ireland 2 – 0 Hungary

Ireland’s formidable home record—17 wins in their last 21 competitive matches, with a 54–5 goal difference in that run—combined with Hungary’s poor away form (just one win in nine road fixtures) makes the hosts the safer bet. Expect a gritty, hard-fought contest that Ireland edges with discipline and determination.