Troy Parrott delivered one of the most memorable performances in Ireland’s recent football history, scoring a stunning hat-trick to send the Republic of Ireland into the World Cup playoffs after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Hungary. His decisive goal, struck deep into stoppage time, silenced the Puskas Arena and sparked unforgettable celebrations among the travelling Irish support.
The Irish forward, who plies his trade in the Dutch Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar, was already riding high after netting twice in the win over Portugal earlier in the week. Yet this performance surpassed even that, as he dragged his side into the playoffs with a fearless display full of determination and clinical finishing.
Hungary took the lead inside three minutes through Daniel Lukacs, capitalising on early defensive uncertainty from Ireland. But Parrott soon restored calm, stepping up to convert a penalty in the 15th minute despite intense hostility from the home crowd. His composure under pressure set the tone for what would become a heroic night.
Barnabas Varga restored Hungary’s advantage before the break with a well-taken half-volley after chesting the ball down outside the box. The hosts looked comfortable for much of the second half, dominating possession and threatening to seal the result, especially through Dominik Szoboszlai, who continued his strong club form. But as the minutes ticked away, nerves crept into the Hungarian side.
With Portugal thrashing Armenia elsewhere to top Group F and secure their qualification, the pressure piled on Hungary to hold on. Ireland grew stronger with every passing moment, inspired by the belief that they could yet turn the game around. Caoimhin Kelleher produced crucial saves to keep Ireland alive, while substitute Johnny Kenny came close during a frantic stoppage-time spell.
Parrott struck his second in the 80th minute with a delicate, looping finish that brought Ireland level. Then, in the sixth minute of added time, he pounced on a flicked header from Liam Scales, prodding the ball past the keeper to complete his hat-trick and seal a sensational win.
Ireland now turn their attention to March’s single-leg playoff ties, two matches that stand between them and a return to the World Cup for the first time since 2002. The draw for the playoffs will be conducted later this week, with belief and momentum firmly on Ireland’s side.
