DUBLIN, Ireland – The Republic of Ireland staged a dramatic second-half comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Hungary in World Cup qualifying on Tuesday, scoring a 93rd-minute equalizer to salvage a crucial point at the Aviva Stadium.
Hungary raced into an early lead with Barnabás Varga finishing clinically after just two minutes before Roland Sallai doubled the advantage with a powerful header from a Dominik Szoboszlai corner in the 15th minute. Ireland struggled to break down a disciplined Hungarian defense in the first half, with Evan Ferguson coming closest with a venomous strike palmed away by goalkeeper Dénes Dibusz.
The momentum shifted decisively four minutes after the restart when Ferguson pounced on a loose ball to pull one back for the hosts. The game turned further in Ireland’s favor when Sallai was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Dara O’Shea in the 59th minute. Despite relentless pressure and multiple saves from Dibusz, Ireland finally broke through in the third minute of stoppage time when substitute Adam Idah rose to head home Ryan Manning’s cross.
The result extends Hungary’s winless run against Ireland to seven matches and provides a significant boost to Ireland’s qualifying hopes as they seek their first World Cup appearance since 2002. For Hungary, who last qualified in 1986, the late collapse represents a missed opportunity to strengthen their position in the group.
