The Republic of Ireland booked a place in the World Cup play-offs after a sensational comeback victory over Hungary, sealed by a stoppage-time strike from Troy Parrott that completed his hat-trick.
Hallgrimsson’s squad entered the night knowing only a win would extend their campaign, having stunned Portugal with a 2–0 triumph days earlier. Their hopes suffered an immediate setback when Daniel Lukacs met an early cross with a close-range header that survived a VAR check.
Ireland soon responded, however, when Chiedozie Ogbene was impeded in the box, allowing Parrott to convert confidently from the spot.
Hungary regained the advantage before the interval as Barnabas Varga arrowed a fierce left-footed effort beyond Caoimhin Kelleher.
Parrott’s late brilliance seals famous fightback
The visitors pushed on despite clear signs of fatigue after their exertions against Portugal. Adam Idah briefly thought he had equalized, only for his finish to be ruled offside.
Ireland kept pressing, and Parrott timed his run perfectly to break the defensive line and guide a delicate effort over Denes Dibusz with ten minutes left.
Substitute Johnny Kenny nearly snatched the winner, only for Dibusz to produce an important block.
Deep into added time, a long delivery found Liam Scales, whose touch dropped for Parrott to stab in from close range and ignite wild celebrations among the travelling supporters. The AZ Alkmaar forward became the first Irish player to record a competitive hat trick since Robbie Keane in 2014.
Hungarian disappointment as Portugal seal group
Hungary, captained by Dominik Szoboszlai, was left devastated as their long pursuit of another World Cup appearance — their last was in 1986 — must continue.
Kelleher again proved crucial for Ireland, making key stops to deny Roland Sallai on two occasions and keeping the visitors within reach.
Elsewhere in Group F, Portugal overpowered Armenia with a comprehensive 9–1 win to secure first place and automatic qualification for next year’s finals in North America.
Reaction from the key figures
Parrott described the night as beyond anything he could have dreamt, calling the experience “a fairytale” and highlighting the emotional impact of the moment.
Hallgrimsson admitted his team struggled early on, noting the nervousness in Ireland’s movement and defensive reactions.
The coach said the players earned their success through determination, especially after introducing multiple forwards late in the game, and congratulated supporters for their backing.