Sammie Szmodics. Morgan Treacy/INPHO

Szmodics and Azaz to lead Irish attack alongside Ferguson against Hungary

Matt Doherty starts at left-back as Heimir Hallgrimsson has named his starting team.

EVAN FERGUSON WILL lead the line alongside Sammie Szmodics and Finn Azaz for Ireland against Hungary in tonight’s 2026 World Cup qualifier. 

Heimir Hallgrimsson has named Matt Doherty at left-back, with Jake O’Brien at right-back. Nathan Collins is captain, and is partnered by Dara O’Shea at centre-back. Caoimhín Kelleher is in goal. 

Josh Cullen and Jason Knight are in midfield, with Ryan Manning likely to start in a more advanced role off the left. Azaz, Szmodics and Ferguson will provide Ireland’s firepower, with Troy Parrott injured. 

Screenshot 2025-09-06 at 18.19.16

 

As expected, Dominik Szoboszlai captains a Hungary side also featuring his Liverpool team-mate, Milos Kerkez. 

Ireland’s first game of the campaign is arguably their most important, with Hungary their direct rivals for second spot and a play-off spot next Spring. 

Kick off at the Aviva Stadium is at 7.45pm, and the sold-out game is live on RTÉ Two. 

Close
6 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel