A dramatic late header from Adam Idah secured a 2-2 draw for the Republic of Ireland against Hungary in their World Cup qualifier at the Aviva Stadium. Ireland fought back from two goals down against a 10-man Hungarian side to earn a crucial point in their campaign.
The match began as a nightmare for the home side, with Barnabás Varga putting Hungary ahead in the first two minutes. Matt Doherty's header went awry, allowing Callum Styles to set up Varga, who finished past Caoimhín Kelleher. Hungary doubled their lead in the 15th minute when Roland Sallai headed in Dominik Szoboszlai's corner. The early goals silenced the sold-out crowd and left Ireland with a mountain to climb.
Hungary, however, didn't sit back completely, and Varga missed a header in the 13th minute. After their second goal, they opted to slow the game down, which allowed Ireland to start dictating play, although clear-cut chances were hard to come by. Doherty had a shot from the edge of the area that went wide, while Jason Knight and Ryan Manning combined to set up Nathan Collins, whose header was saved. Kelleher prevented Hungary from extending their lead further, stopping a cross from Bendeguz Bolla. Just before halftime, Evan Ferguson tested Hungary's goalkeeper Denes Dibusz with a shot.
The second half saw a different Ireland emerge. Roma striker Evan Ferguson pulled a goal back early in the second half. Then, the game shifted further in Ireland's favor when Roland Sallai received a red card, leaving Hungary with 10 men. With a one-man advantage, Ireland intensified their attack.
Ireland pressed for an equaliser, and their persistence paid off in the third minute of stoppage time when Adam Idah headed in Ryan Manning's cross to level the score. The late goal sparked celebrations among the Irish fans, securing a valuable point in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
Speaking after the match, Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson expressed his pride in the team's second-half performance, noting their character and effort. He felt Ireland deserved to win, particularly given the number of crosses they put into the box.
The draw means Ireland and Hungary are on an even keel in the race for second place in Group F behind Portugal. Ireland will travel to Armenia for their next World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
