Parrott gives epic triumph to Ireland with hat-trick and qualifies for the World Cup play-offs

Troy Parrott leads Ireland to the 2026 World Cup playoffs with a stunning hat-trick

In a match full of drama and emotions, Troy Parrott became the hero of the Republic of Ireland by scoring a ‘hat-trick’ that secured a 3-2 victory over Hungary in Budapest, in stoppage time, and earned them a place in the play-offs for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Parrott, with his goal in the 96th minute, sealed an epic comeback after Daniel Lukacs opened the scoring for Hungary and then Barnabas Varga put the home side ahead again. The victory was crucial for the team led by Heimir Hallgrimsson, and Parrott did not disappoint. Ireland, finishing second behind Portugal, who defeated Armenia 9-1, secured a place in the play-offs to be played in March.

“I’m very excited, these are tears of joy. What a night! I can’t believe it. This is what we love about football. I love where I come from, this means the world to me,” declared an emotional Parrott to the media.

Troy Parrott

The match began with Hungary taking the lead at three minutes, thanks to a header from Lukacs after a cross from Dominik Szoboszlai. However, Ireland responded with a penalty converted by Parrott, following a foul on Chiedozie Ogbene. Hungary went ahead again with an impressive goal by Varga, but Irish persistence paid off. Parrott, with his second goal, tied the match, and finally, in stoppage time, completed his ‘hat-trick’ with a goal that unleashed euphoria. The Irish joy was marred by Ogbene’s injury, who had to be substituted. Despite Szoboszlai’s efforts, Ireland remained calm and, thanks to Parrott’s brilliant performance, achieved victory. Kelleher made a great save against an attempt by Sallai, and although Dibusz prevented a goal by Johnny Kenny in added time, he could do nothing against Parrott’s decisive goal, which secured the victory and a place in the play-offs.