In a heart-stopping finale in Budapest, the Republic of Ireland snatched a dramatic victory and a coveted World Cup play-off place, thanks to a heroic performance from striker Troy Parrott.
Parrott's Budapest Heroics
The match at the Puskas Arena on Sunday 16 November 2025 was a rollercoaster from start to finish. Hungary struck first through Daniel Lukacs, putting the home side ahead. Ireland's hopes were repeatedly kept alive by Troy Parrott, who first found an equaliser to cancel out Hungary's opener.
Just as it seemed the momentum might swing, Hungary retook the lead through a goal from Barnabas Varga. Once again, Parrott stepped up for his country, scoring his second to level the match and set up a grandstand finish.
Stoppage Time Winner Seals the Deal
As the clock ticked into the sixth minute of added time, the stage was set for a dramatic conclusion. It was then that Parrott completed his superb hat-trick, firing home to secure an unforgettable 3-2 victory for the Irish team.
While Parrott will deservedly grab the headlines, the victory was also built on a foundation of resilient defending. Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was in inspired form, making several key saves throughout the back-and-forth contest to keep his team in the fight.
What This Victory Means
The crucial three points meant that the Republic of Ireland finished second in their qualification group. This result pushed them ahead of Hungary in the final standings, thereby securing their passage into the next stage of qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The dramatic nature of the win, sealed with a last-gasp goal from their hat-trick hero, will live long in the memory of Irish football fans and provides a massive boost as the team looks ahead to the play-offs.
