Hungary vs Portugal: Euro 2020 Group Stage Showdown Preview
The European football spotlight shines on Budapest as defending champions Portugal meet Hungary in a crucial opening fixture at the Ferenc Puskas Arena. With both teams placed in a highly competitive group, securing three points in this match is vital for their ambitions in the tournament.
Hungary’s Long Road Back to European Football
Hungary’s history in the European Championship is marked by impressive highs and long periods of absence. Their best performance dates back to 1964, when the legendary Ferenc Puskas led the team to a third-place finish. The golden era extended into the early 1970s, but Hungarian hopes faded with decades away from the spotlight, including a 42-year absence from the Euros.
The drought ended in 2016 when Hungary, managed by Bernd Storck, surprised many by topping their group, which included Portugal, the eventual champions. The memorable 3-3 draw between these two sides remains one of Euro 2016’s most entertaining games, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo at his thrilling best to save Portugal from defeat. However, Hungary’s campaign concluded with a heavy 4-0 loss to Belgium in the Round of 16.
Now under the leadership of Marco Rossi, the Hungarian team enters Euro 2020 in fine form, enjoying an impressive 11-match unbeaten run. They aim to build on recent progress and once again challenge Europe’s elite.
Portugal’s Pursuit of Back-to-Back Titles
Portugal, reigning European champions, enter the competition with heightened expectations and a formidable squad. After their dramatic 2016 triumph against France, Fernando Santos now has the benefit of a deeper and more versatile selection. While Cristiano Ronaldo remains the talisman, the current roster boasts world-class talents such as Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, and Bernardo Silva, bringing additional creativity and attacking threat.
The Portuguese approach this tournament with the goal of relying less on Ronaldo’s heroics and more on a collective effort to secure consecutive European Championships, a feat that would further cement their status among football’s top nations.
Team News and Notable Absences
Both camps have encountered significant selection setbacks ahead of kickoff:
- Hungary will be without influential midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, yet to feature competitively for RB Leipzig due to injury since his January move. His absence is a major blow to Hungary’s offensive options.
- Portugal’s preparations have also been disrupted. Right back João Cancelo, in outstanding form for Manchester City, tested positive for Covid-19 and misses out on the tournament. Milan’s Diogo Dalot, who is uncapped at senior level, steps in as a last-minute addition. With Cancelo previously a cornerstone of Portugal’s defensive strategy, this change forces a tactical rethink for coach Santos.
Despite these setbacks, both sides retain considerable quality and will look to their star names and squad depth to compensate.
Head-to-Head History
The recent history between Hungary and Portugal indicates Portuguese dominance, with the last three encounters resulting in two wins for Portugal and one draw. Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo claimed the player-of-the-match distinction in every meeting. Hungary, yet to face the Portuguese under manager Marco Rossi, are determined to overturn their fortunes and earn a statement result.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Based on probable tactical setups and available personnel, here are the expected starting elevens for both nations:
| Hungary (3-5-2) | Portugal (4-3-3) |
|---|---|
| Gulácsi | Patrício |
| Fiola, Orbán, Att. Szalai | Semedo, Dias, Pepe, Guerreiro |
| Lovrencsics, Kleinheisler, Nagy, Schäfer, Holender | Danilo, W. Carvalho, Fernandes |
| Sallai, Ad. Szalai | Bernardo, Ronaldo, Jota |
What to Expect in Budapest
This opening Group F clash promises intensity and high drama as both nations are eager to set a positive tone for the tournament. For Hungary, a result against the holders would ignite hopes of another remarkable run. Portugal, meanwhile, seek a commanding start to reinforce their credentials as one of the favorites for the trophy.
Given the difficulty of the group, dropped points could prove costly. Both teams will be motivated to attack, and history suggests an open, entertaining contest. With Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch and Hungary driven to excel on home soil, Budapest is poised for a thrilling encounter to launch their Euro 2020 campaigns.
