Portugal 2-1 Hungary: Cristiano Ronaldo Scores Late Winner in Tense World Cup Qualifier
LISBON, PORTUGAL – A dramatic late volley from captain Cristiano Ronaldo secured a crucial 2-1 victory for Portugal against a resilient and well-organized Hungary in their FIFA World Cup qualification match on Tuesday night. The hard-fought win at the Estádio da Luz keeps Portugal’s hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup firmly alive.
Diogo Jota had given the home side a first-half lead, but a spirited Hungarian side fought back to level the score in the second half through Ádám Szalai. Just as it seemed Portugal would have to settle for a frustrating draw, Ronaldo stepped up in the 89th minute to snatch a vital three points.
Match Summary
Portugal started the game on the front foot, dominating possession as expected, with Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield. Hungary, however, defended deep and looked threatening on the counter-attack, making for a tense opening half-hour.
The breakthrough finally came for Portugal in the 35th minute. A perfectly delivered cross from the right flank by Bruno Fernandes found Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who rose highest in the box to head the ball powerfully past the Hungarian goalkeeper.
Portugal took their 1-0 lead into the halftime break, but Hungary emerged for the second half with renewed determination. They stunned the home crowd in the 68th minute when a quick long ball from the back caught the Portuguese defense off guard. Veteran striker Ádám Szalai raced onto the pass and fired a clinical low shot into the bottom corner to make it 1-1.
The game became a frantic, end-to-end affair as Portugal pushed desperately for a winner. Just as time appeared to be running out, they won a corner in the 89th minute. The inswinging delivery was flicked on at the near post, and it fell perfectly to Cristiano Ronaldo, who instinctively volleyed the ball home from six yards out, sparking scenes of wild celebration and relief around the stadium.
Key Moments
- 35′ (GOAL): Diogo Jota puts Portugal ahead with a powerful header from a Bruno Fernandes cross.
- 68′ (GOAL): Ádám Szalai scores a shock equalizer for Hungary on a swift counter-attack.
- 89′ (GOAL): Cristiano Ronaldo scores the dramatic late winner from a corner to secure the victory for Portugal.
Player of the Match: Bruno Fernandes
While Cristiano Ronaldo will grab the headlines for his decisive goal, Bruno Fernandes was the true architect of Portugal’s victory. He was at the heart of every attacking move, provided a brilliant assist for the opening goal, and controlled the tempo of the game from midfield with his vision and passing range.
What This Result Means for World Cup Qualification
This victory is crucial for Portugal. It keeps them in second place in their qualifying group, just two points behind the group leaders with only two matches left to play. The win ensures that the race for automatic qualification will go down to the wire.
For Hungary, the heartbreaking late loss means they can no longer qualify automatically for the World Cup, though they may still have a chance to reach the play-offs.