BUDAPEST, Hungary – Portugal will look to maintain their perfect start to World Cup qualifying when they face Hungary on Tuesday in a match that pits the Group F leaders against a host team seeking redemption after their dramatic collapse against Ireland.
Roberto Martínez’s side opened their campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over Armenia, featuring a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo that extended his international goal record. The performance reinforced Portugal’s status as group favorites as they pursue a seventh consecutive World Cup appearance ahead of co-hosting the 2030 tournament.
Hungary arrived under pressure after surrendering a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Ireland, a result that leaves them two points behind Portugal. Marco Rossi’s team has struggled against higher-ranked opponents, losing their last four matches against teams positioned above them in FIFA’s rankings.
Historical trends heavily favor Portugal, who are unbeaten in 14 previous meetings (W10, D4) and have lost just one away qualifier in their last nine attempts. Hungary’s recent form in Budapest offers little encouragement, with no wins in their last five home matches (D3, L2).
The match features significant absences: Hungary will miss suspended forward Roland Sallai, while Portugal travels without defender Diogo Dalot, who withdrew from the squad before the Armenia match.
Portugal’s defensive solidity – clean sheets in seven of their last nine away qualifiers – contrasts with Hungary’s vulnerability after conceding two second-half goals against Ireland. With both teams demonstrating early scoring tendencies, the opening period may prove decisive in determining whether Portugal can extend their dominance or Hungary can spring an upset to revive their qualifying hopes.
