Hungary's Unbeaten Streak Ends with Surprise Loss to Republic of Ireland
Hungary's head coach, Marco Rossi, expressed disbelief as his team's 15-match unbeaten streak came to an end with a 2-1 defeat against the Republic of Ireland, ahead of their Euro 2024 finals clash with Scotland.
The opening goal in the 35th minute was scored by Adam Idah, the Norwich City striker on loan to Celtic, who headed in a cross from Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone.
The visitors equalized five minutes later when captain Dominik Szoboszlai's deflected long-range shot was flicked on by RB Leipzig's Willi Orban, allowing Adam Lang of Omonia to net the ball into the roof of the net.
Tottenham Hotspur striker Troy Parrott secured victory for Ireland in stoppage time, sealing the win against Hungary.
Rossi, acknowledging his team's dominance but lamenting missed opportunities, said, "We were not satisfied even with the draw in minute 91. We had several chances to win this match... every time if it's not possible to win, we have to accept the draw."
Despite the loss, Rossi emphasized Hungary's growth, stating, "We are in a process, we are growing up."
Several key players were absent for Hungary in Dublin. Fehérvár defender Attila Fiola is undergoing restricted training sessions but is expected to play against Israel on Saturday. Kecskeméti midfielder Krisztofer Horvath is nursing a minor injury, while Bendegúz Bolla of Servette and Dániel Gazdag of Philadelphia Union joined the squad late due to club commitments.
