"Portugal are just one victory away from confirming their place at the 2026 World Cup as they host Hungary at the Estadio Jose Alvalade on Tuesday evening. The Selecao survived a scare against the Republic of Ireland at the weekend, overcoming a missed Cristiano Ronaldo penalty to secure a narrow 1-0 win in Lisbon. Ruben Neves proved to be the hero for Roberto Martinez's side, heading home a stoppage-time winner to maintain their flawless record in Group F. That result extended Portugal's lead at the top to five points with only three games remaining, meaning that victory over Hungary - combined with an Ireland win over Armenia - would guarantee qualification for next summer's tournament."
"Hungary arrive in Lisbon in improving form after a slow start to qualifying. Marco Rossi's men climbed into second place thanks to a 2-0 home victory over Armenia, with Daniel Lukacs and Zsombor Gruber on the scoresheet. That result gives them a slim chance of catching Portugal, though avoiding defeat here is crucial to staying in contention. The Magyars' win last time out was only their second in nine matches but did end an eight-game run without a clean sheet. Encouragingly, they have scored at least twice in four consecutive matches in all competitions. However, their record against Portugal is daunting - Hungary have failed to win any of their previous 15 meetings, including a 3-2 home defeat earlier in this qualifying campaign."
"Portugal emerged from their victory over Ireland without any new injury worries. Goncalo Inacio was replaced at half-time by Renato Veiga, but the switch appeared tactical rather than enforced, and the Brentford defender may now start from the outset. Francisco Trincão is pushing for a place in the starting lineup after his lively cameo at the weekend, setting up Neves's decisive goal. Joao Neves remains unavailable due to injury, but Joao Palhinha offers strong cover in midfield."
Portugal sit one win away from confirming a spot at the 2026 World Cup after a narrow 1-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland, sealed by Ruben Neves's stoppage-time header. The win extended Portugal's lead to five points with three games remaining, making a home win versus Hungary plus an Ireland victory over Armenia sufficient for qualification. Hungary arrive in improved form after a 2-0 win over Armenia and occupy second place, but face a daunting record against Portugal and must avoid defeat to stay in contention. Portugal have no new injury concerns, with Trincão pushing for a start and Palhinha available cover.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
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