The official line-ups are out in Budapest as Hungary look to bounce back from a disappointing start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. Marco Rossi names Balázs Tóth in goal, with a defensive four of Loïc Négo, Willi Orbán, Attila Szalai, and Milos Kerkez.
In midfield, Callum Styles and Bendegúz Bolla are joined by captain Dominik Szoboszlai, while András Tóth and Zsolt Nagy provide support to striker Barnabás Varga, who leads the line. Softfootball reported in the match preview that Portugal will test the resilience of Hungary, especially after the 5-nil thrashing of Armenia.
Hungary’s hopes rest heavily on Szoboszlai, whose influence is clear, the team has not lost in the last twelve games in which he has scored. Yet with creative winger Roland Sallai suspended, Rossi’s side will need others to step up if they are to test one of Europe’s most talented squads.
Portugal, meanwhile, name Diogo Costa in goal behind a back four of João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Nuno Mendes, and João Neves filling a flexible role. The midfield boasts Vitinha, Rúben Neves, and Bruno Fernandes, offering control, vision, and drive. In attack, Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto flank captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored twice in their opening 5-0 win against Armenia.
Portugal posted the lineup via the team’s official X account:
Roberto Martínez’s side arrive in ruthless form. With Ronaldo still decisive and support from the likes of João Félix and Rafael Leão waiting on the bench, Portugal carry threat from every angle. History is also on their side — unbeaten in 14 meetings with Hungary, winning ten.
For Hungary, home support in Budapest will provide energy, but their record against top-ranked opposition is worrying, with just one win in seven matches. Against a Portugal team brimming with confidence, discipline and defensive focus will be vital if they are to avoid being overrun once more.
