Title
Portugal vs Hungary National watch League Qualifier Showdown
Blog Post
Portugal secured a hard earned victory over Hungary by a final score of 3‑2 in their World Cup 2026 qualifier at Budapest’s Puskás Arena on 9 September 2025. Cristiano Ronaldo and João Cancelo delivered the decisive moments with Ronaldo converting a penalty and Cancelo scoring a late winner to seal the three points that lifted Portugal to the top of Group F as their qualifying campaign kicked off in style .
From the first whistle the watch match promised
intensity. Hungary struck first inside the opening half hour when Barnabás Varga powered a header past the goalkeeper in the 21st minute off an inch‑perfect cross . Portugal responded with composure and discipline. Bernardo Silva brought them level around fifteen minutes later with a composed finish in the box . The momentum shifted when Varga handled the ball in the area leading to a penalty spot confrontation. Ronaldo stepped up and coolly buried his penalty giving Portugal the lead and in doing so extended his international tally to 141 goals and became the joint‑top scorer in World Cup qualifiers with 39 goals .
Hungary refused to watch lie down.
Deep into the second half, Varga rose again to head home and restore parity for the hosts . Yet that jubilant moment was short lived. Just two minutes later Bernardo Silva drove forward and laid the ball off for Cancelo who struck a first time effort from outside the penalty area into the back of the net delivering a dramatic winner for Portugal .
Across the watch Ronaldo’s legacy was in the spotlight.
He reached yet another landmark with his goal and showcased leadership that extends far beyond the pitch . Off the field he offered a touching moment. Hungary captain Dominik Szoboszlai who waited outside the Portugal dressing room hoping to swap shirts with his idol Ronaldo was told that the jersey had already been given away. Ronaldo promised to make it right in their next meeting in Portugal .
This result puts Portugal on six points from their opening two away qualifiers and gives them early control of Group F. Armenia lie second with three points after beating Ireland and both Hungary and Ireland sit on one point each .
Match Highlights
- First Half:
- Hungary lead via Barnabás Varga (21′)
- Bernardo Silva equalises (circa 36′)
- Ronaldo penalty restored Portugal lead (around 42′)
- Second Half:
- Varga equalises again (late second half)
- Cancelo volley seals victory (two minutes later)
Head‑to‑Head watch Context
Portugal maintain their dominance over Hungary in recent history. Prior to this game, they had gone undefeated in 14 encounters winning 10 and drawing 4 with a goal tally of 33‑10 in their favour . Their most recent meeting at Euro 2020 saw Portugal win 3‑0 with goals from Raphael Guerreiro and a Cristiano Ronaldo brace .
Hungary seldom find joy against the top tier nations. They have only managed one victory in 19 competitive fixtures against such opponents including Portugal .
What watch This Means
This victory propels Portugal into a commanding early position in their World Cup qualifying group. Their blend of experience and talent continues to shine. Ronaldo’s enduring presence at 40 still delivers big moments and iconic storylines.
Hungary will be disappointed but can draw positives from their resilience and equalising efforts. They now need to regroup quickly as the road ahead is tough.
For more in depth team performance analysis check out our article on [[Team Portugal Form]] or [[Hungary’s Qualifier Prospects]].
External Resource
For further details on the full matchday schedule and standings follow the official UEFA coverage here: UEFA European Qualifiers Portugal vs Hungary.
Final Thoughts
Portugal’s grit and star power proved decisive once more. Their ability to come from behind and respond under pressure reveals a deep squad mentality and unwavering focus. As qualification heats up this kind of fortitude will take them far.
If you enjoyed this match breakdown be sure to explore more on our site and keep track of the qualifying drama unfolding across Group F and beyond.
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