Hungary vs Republic of Ireland: H2H, predictions and probable lineups — 16 November 2025
On Sunday, November 16, as part of the World Cup qualification campaign, Hungary will host the Republic of Ireland on home soil. Read on for details about each team's form and a match prediction.
See also: Ukraine vs Iceland prediction and betting tips 16 November 2025
Match preview
Hungary, having collected eight points from five matches in Group F, still has a shot not only at the playoffs but also at a direct ticket to the World Cup finals. Portugal’s unexpected defeat to Ireland has given the Hungarians a chance to fight for the top spot. In five matches, Hungary has found the net nine times and conceded seven goals, with their only defeat coming against Portugal in a 2-3 thriller.
Hungary is likely to field a balanced formation: the team will aim to control possession in the central areas, put pressure through the midfield, and actively utilize the flanks. Expect them to engage in fierce battles in the middle of the park, leveraging their physicality and experienced players.
After a poor start, where they earned just three points from their first three games, Ireland turned the group on its head by beating Portugal 2-0 at home. As a result, the Irish now have seven points from five matches and sit third, just one point behind Hungary. We’re in for a genuine battle for a spot at the World Cup.
Ireland could opt for a more cautious and pragmatic approach: a compact defense, quick transitions into counterattacks, and making use of set pieces and rapid breaks. Their key opportunity will be to catch Hungary off guard and capitalize on any defensive errors.
Probable lineups
Hungary: Dibusz; Nego, Orban, Szalai, Kerkez; Schafer, Styles, Szoboszlai; Bolla, Varga, Sallai
Rep of Ireland: Kelleher; Coleman, Collins, O'Shea, O'Brien, Scales; Azaz, Taylor, Cullen; Ogbene, Parrott
Match facts and head-to-head
- In recent history, Ireland has faced Hungary four times: three draws and one Irish victory
- Hungary has conceded in nine of their last ten matches
- Five of Ireland’s last seven matches have seen two or fewer goals scored
Prediction
Despite Ireland’s tendency for low-scoring games, I believe this clash will turn into a fierce battle for a place in the next round. Both teams have dangerous attacking options, but their defenses can be shaky. My prediction: both teams to score – YES at 2.00.
