Hungary vs Armenia Preview Prediction Team News and Lineups
Hungary and Armenia Set for Crucial World Cup Qualifier Clash in Budapest
Hungary Seeks First Victory in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Hungary is eager to secure its first win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as they welcome Armenia to the Puskas Arena in Budapest for their third Group F fixture. Despite a history of struggle, having only secured one point from their initial two matches against the Republic of Ireland and Portugal, Hungary hopes to leverage its home advantage. Their last encounter with Armenia dates back to a 2004 friendly, which they won 2-0.
Challenges on Home Turf for Hungary
Despite a standing of 41st in the world by FIFA, Hungary faces an uphill battle to revive its World Cup hopes. Recent performances have been a challenge, with Hungary recording only two wins in their last twelve international appearances. Coach Marco Rossi acknowledges the potential threat posed by Armenia, ranked 62 places lower than Hungary, and stresses the importance of claiming victory on home soil, where Hungary has struggled to win recently.
Armenia’s Muted Away Performance
Armenia arrives in Budapest seeking a turn in fortunes, having won only once in their last 12 international away games. However, a recent home victory against the Republic of Ireland ended a five-match winless streak, providing a morale boost. Armenia is currently separated by just two points from Hungary and aims to consolidate its position within the group under newly appointed coach Yegishe Melikyan.
Key Team Changes and Strategies
Hungary will be without the services of attacking players Roland Sallai and Barnabas Varga, necessitating tactical adjustments. Dominik Szoboszlai of Liverpool may feature as a false nine, with Zsolt Nagy and Bendeguz Bolla likely contributing from the flanks.
Conversely, Armenia faces its own lineup challenges, with winger Edgar Sevikyan out due to injury. Lucas Zelarayan’s fitness remains uncertain after joining the team late, yet he could play alongside Eduard Spertsyan in midfield to support the attacking efforts led by Grant-Leon Ranos and captain Tigran Barseghyan.
Predicted Outcomes and Possible Lineups
Given both teams are in need of points, the match promises to be competitive. Hungary is expected to edge out Armenia with a 2-1 scoreline, capitalizing on their home ground advantage. Below are the probable starting lineups for both teams.
| Team | Lineup |
|---|---|
| Hungary | Dibusz; Nego, Orban, Szalai, Kerkez; A. Toth, Schafer, Styles; Bolla, Szoboszlai, Z. Nagy |
| Armenia | Cancarevic; Hovhannisyan, Mkrtchyan, Piloyan, Muradyan, Tiknizyan; Spertsyan, Iwu, Zelarayan; Ranos, Barseghyan |
Both Hungary and Armenia understand the stakes as they aim to improve their positions within Group F, making this a must-watch encounter for football fans.
