Mansion Sports – A high-stakes clash is set to take place at Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, as the Portugal national football team host the Hungary national football team in the continuation of the 2026 European Zone World Cup Qualifiers Group F. This highly anticipated fixture will kick off on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 19:45 local time.

For Portugal, a victory in this match could pave the way for early qualification to the 2026 World Cup.

Meanwhile, Hungary arrive with strong ambitions of spoiling the host nation’s celebration and boosting their own playoff hopes.

Portugal: One Step Away from Securing Qualification

Portugal are on the verge of booking their ticket to the 2026 World Cup. The scenario is straightforward: if they defeat Hungary and Armenia national football team fail to beat Republic of Ireland national football team, the Selecão will secure qualification for the seventh consecutive time.

The Selecão currently sit at the top of Group F with a five-point cushion. Last weekend, Roberto Martínez’s side claimed a narrow 1–0 victory over Ireland in Lisbon. 

A late goal from Rúben Neves saved Portugal’s blushes after Cristiano Ronaldo failed to convert a penalty.

Although the missed penalty briefly silenced the crowd, Portugal’s winning mentality shone through in the decisive moment. 

That victory extended their unbeaten run in the qualifiers. Over their last six matches in all competitions, they have recorded five wins and one draw.

Even though their streak of scoring multiple goals ended in their previous outing, Portugal’s overall stability remains impressive. 

They have shown maturity and composure, particularly when under pressure, making them heavy favorites heading into this encounter.

Hungary: Rising Momentum Meets a Tough Challenge

Hungary have been on the rise after a shaky start to their qualification campaign. Marco Rossi’s team collected just one point from their first two matches but have since secured back-to-back victories. 

Currently, they are one point ahead of Armenia and three points clear of Ireland in the battle for playoff positions.

However, their trip to Lisbon poses a far more difficult challenge. Portugal boast superior quality and a dominant head-to-head record against Hungary. The Selecão have never lost in their last 15 encounters, including a thrilling 3–2 win in Budapest.

Hungary’s attacking form has been encouraging, with at least two goals scored in their last four matches. 

Yet their defensive frailties remain a major concern—they have kept just one clean sheet in their last nine outings. 

Unless their defense improves, they may struggle to withstand Portugal’s relentless attacks at home.

Portugal stand in a highly favorable position. With home support and a deep, balanced squad, they are well placed to secure early qualification.

Group F Standings Before the Match

Portugal vs Hungary Predicted Lineups

Portugal’s Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Portugal approach this match with a nearly full-strength squad. There are no new injury concerns following their win over Ireland. 

Gonçalo Inácio, who was substituted in the second half, only made a tactical exit. Francisco Trincão, who delivered the crucial assist for Neves’s winner, is expected to start.

Hungary’s Predicted Starting XI (4-4-2)

Hungary have received a major boost with the return of Roland Sallai and Barnabás Varga from suspension. 

Their inclusion adds valuable attacking options for Marco Rossi. Although Dániel Lukács impressed in the previous match, Varga is expected to start as the central striker. Dominik Szoboszlai and Milos Kerkez remain key figures on the left flank.

Final Thoughts

This is far more than a routine qualifier. Portugal have a golden opportunity to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup ahead of schedule, while Hungary aim to deliver an upset to keep their playoff hopes alive.

With a complete squad, strong home support, and a dominant record against Hungary, Portugal are clear favorites. 

Yet Hungary’s recent resurgence should not be underestimated. All eyes will be on Lisbon as the Portugal vs Hungary World Cup Qualifiers lineups are put to the test on the pitch.