Marco Rossi Aims for Playoffs as Primary Goal
Marco Rossi, the head coach of Hungary’s national football team, is focused on reaching the playoffs of the 2026 World Cup. This ambition comes after a solid performance in the current European qualifiers. Rossi recognizes the strength of the competition, particularly from Portugal, as they prepare for an upcoming match against Ireland.
Upcoming Matches and Expectations
This Sunday, Hungary will face Ireland at 15:00 in Budapest’s Puskás Aréna. There is also a crucial match between Portugal and Armenia occurring simultaneously. Rossi is optimistic but realistic about the potential outcomes, stating, “Reaching the playoffs is our goal, and we must play with that in mind.”
He highlighted the importance of fan support, noting memorable moments when the crowd has rallied behind the team. “Since our new stadium opened, I can’t recall a match without our fans cheering us on from the first minute to the last,” he added.
Key Player Insights
- Troy Parrott is expected to lead the Irish attack, having recently recovered from injury.
- Rossi believes that while Parrott is a skilled player, Hungary must prepare for Ireland’s full roster of attacking options.
Historical Context and Records
Rossi’s next game will mark his 81st match in charge of the Hungarian national team, setting a record for the most consecutive matches managed by a Hungarian coach without interruption. His priority remains guiding the team to victory.
Group Standings
| Team | Matches Played (M) | Wins (W) | Draws (D) | Losses (L) | Goals Scored (G) | Points (P) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 11 | 10 |
| Hungary | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 9 | 8 |
| Ireland | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 7 |
| Armenia | 5 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 3 |
A draw against Ireland would ensure Hungary a spot in the playoff, keeping their World Cup hopes alive. The team is gearing up for a highly anticipated match, with expectations running high for another memorable performance.
