Match Overview
In a thrilling encounter at the Estádio JosĂ© Alvalade in Lisbon on October 14, 2025, Portugal and Hungary played to a 2-2 draw in a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifier. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo‘s historic brace, Portugal was unable to secure the victory that would have guaranteed their qualification for the World Cup.
First Half: Hungary Takes the Lead
The match commenced with high intensity as Hungary took an early lead. In the 10th minute, Attila Szalai rose above the Portuguese defense to head in a corner, giving Hungary a 1-0 advantage. Portugal responded swiftly, and in the 22nd minute, Ronaldo equalized with a clinical finish from inside the box.
Just before halftime, in the 45th minute, Ronaldo struck again, this time capitalizing on a precise cross from Nuno Mendes to give Portugal a 2-1 lead heading into the break.
Second Half: Hungary’s Late Equalizer
The second half saw Portugal dominate possession, creating several opportunities to extend their lead. However, they were thwarted by Hungary’s resilient defense and the woodwork. In the dying moments of the match, in the 92nd minute, Hungary’s Dominik Szoboszlai capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa, leveling the score at 2-2.
🏆 Ronaldo Makes History
Cristiano Ronaldo’s two goals in the match brought his total to 41 goals in World Cup qualifying matches, surpassing the previous record of 39 held by Carlos Ruiz of Guatemala. This achievement further solidifies Ronaldo’s legacy as one of the greatest goal scorers in international football history.
Group F Standings
Following the draw, Portugal leads Group F with 10 points from four matches, five points ahead of second-placed Hungary. The Republic of Ireland, with four points, remains in contention for qualification. Portugal will need at least one win from their remaining two matches to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Match Analysis
Portugal’s Performance
Portugal showcased their attacking prowess, with Ronaldo leading the charge. However, missed opportunities and a lack of clinical finishing prevented them from securing all three points. The defense, while solid for most of the match, allowed Hungary to exploit gaps in the final moments.
Hungary’s Resilience
Hungary demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline, especially in the second half. Despite being under pressure, they capitalized on Portugal’s defensive lapse to earn a valuable point.
Upcoming Fixtures
Portugal’s next match is scheduled for November 2025, where they will face Hungary in Budapest. A victory in this match would guarantee their qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Portugal vs Hungary
1. What was the final score of Portugal vs Hungary?
The match ended in a 2-2 draw during the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers.
2. Who scored the goals for Portugal?
Cristiano Ronaldo scored both goals for Portugal — one in the 22nd minute and another in the 45th minute.
3. Who scored the goals for Hungary?
Attila Szalai scored in the 10th minute, and Dominik Szoboszlai scored the equalizer in stoppage time (92nd minute).
4. Where was the match played?
The game took place at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal.
5. Did Cristiano Ronaldo break any records in this match?
Yes, Ronaldo’s brace brought his total World Cup qualifying goals to 41, surpassing Carlos Ruiz’s record of 39.
6. What was the significance of this draw for Portugal?
The draw allowed Portugal to maintain the top spot in Group F, but they missed the opportunity to secure early qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
7. How did Hungary manage to equalize?
Hungary capitalized on a defensive lapse in stoppage time, allowing Dominik Szoboszlai to score the 2-2 equalizer.
8. Who was the Portuguese goalkeeper in this match?
Diogo Costa was the starting goalkeeper for Portugal.
9. How does this result affect Group F standings?
Portugal leads Group F with 10 points, followed by Hungary with 5 points. The Republic of Ireland remains a contender with 4 points.
10. When is the next Portugal vs Hungary match?
The return fixture is scheduled for November 2025 in Budapest, Hungary.
11. Did either team have any red or yellow cards?
Both teams received yellow cards for tactical fouls, but there were no red cards in this match.
12. How did Portugal perform overall?
Portugal dominated possession, created multiple chances, and displayed attacking prowess but lacked finishing precision in key moments.
13. How did Hungary perform overall?
Hungary showed resilience and tactical discipline, defending well under pressure and scoring a crucial late equalizer.
14. Who provided assists for Portugal’s goals?
The first goal by Ronaldo came from a well-placed through ball, while the second was assisted by Nuno Mendes.
15. What does this result mean for Portugal’s World Cup qualification chances?
Portugal is still in a strong position, needing at least one win from the remaining two matches to qualify for the 2026 World Cup