The Republic of Ireland face a make-or-break trip to Budapest on Sunday, where they will take on Hungary in the final World Cup qualifying match of Group F. Winger Chiedozie Ogbene described the fixture as “all or nothing,” following Ireland’s 2-0 victory over Portugal on Thursday in Dublin.

Ogbene was a standout performer in the win against Portugal, helping keep Ireland’s qualification hopes alive. With the victory, Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side sit third in the group, one point behind Hungary and three points adrift of Portugal, who play Armenia at home simultaneously.

“The result against Portugal hasn’t defined us yet,” said Ogbene. “We have to go to Hungary with a level head, and we must win. It’s all or nothing, really. We can’t go there and try to get a draw—it won’t do us any good, so we need to win this game.”

Ireland are fully aware of the challenge ahead. Playing away in Budapest, they expect Hungary to deploy every tactic possible to frustrate them. Ogbene stressed the importance of carrying forward the momentum and confidence from their victory over Portugal. “We just have to take this momentum and this feel-good factor into Sunday,” he added.

Troy Parrott was the hero in Dublin, scoring both goals in the 2-0 victory, but the match was also marked by controversy when Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card for striking Dara O’Shea with an elbow in the second half. Ogbene praised his teammates for their defensive performance and acknowledged Ronaldo’s frustration.

“Frustration can kick in and happen to the best of us,” said Ogbene. “Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the best players in the world, if not the best, and it happened to him, but that’s credit to the boys and how they defended.”

Sunday’s showdown is crucial: anything less than a win would see the Republic of Ireland fail to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. Fans and players alike will be watching closely as Hallgrimsson’s side attempt to make history with a victory in Hungary.

Related Topics: Republic of Ireland football, Chiedozie Ogbene, Troy Parrott, Cristiano Ronaldo, World Cup qualifiers 2025, Heimir Hallgrimsson, Hungary football