Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL HUNGARY RETURN TO THE WORLD CUP?
Hungary was a global powerhouse during football's golden age, but it hasn't qualified for a World Cup in decades. Can they break their drought and return to the tournament? In this article, we delve into the current state of the Hungarian national team, their glorious history, the players making waves in Europe, and their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. If you're passionate about football history and sporting comebacks, this analysis is for you.
Hungary's Past Glory
In the 1950s, Hungary was synonymous with spectacular football. The legendary "Golden Team" led by Ferenc Puskás shook the world, thrashing England at Wembley and reaching the 1954 World Cup final, where they unexpectedly lost to West Germany. That match, known as "The Miracle of Bern," marked the beginning of a long wait.
Hungary participated in nine World Cups, finishing as runner-up twice (1938 and 1954) and reaching the semi-finals on several occasions.
But after their last appearance in Mexico 1986, the team disappeared from the World Cup radar, amidst political changes, structural crises, and a lack of footballing renewal.
Past Achievements
9 World Cup appearances, including 2 finals.
Remembered “Golden Team” of the 1950s, with figures like Puskás, Kocsis, and Czibor.
Undefeated for 32 consecutive matches (1950–1954).
6-3 victory over England at Wembley, called “the match of the century”.
The present: resurgence or mirage?
In recent years, Hungary has shown clear signs of a footballing recovery. Under the direction of Marco Rossi, the Italian coach who has been in charge since 2018, the national team has managed to qualify for two consecutive European Championships (2020 and 2024), something that hadn't happened since the 1970s.
The team plays with tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and a fighting spirit.
It's no longer the harmless team of the 90s or 2000s. Now it boasts players with experience in major leagues and a recognizable style that competes on equal terms with European powerhouses.Key figures of the new cycle
Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool): young, talented captain and attacking focal point.
Willi Orbán (Leipzig): leader in defense with international experience.
Peter Gulácsi (RB Leipzig): solid and reliable goalkeeper.
Roland Sallai (Freiburg): speed and goalscoring ability from the Midfield.
Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth): A promising young full-back.
Furthermore, Hungarian grassroots football is receiving investment and academies are being modernized. The federation has committed to infrastructure and long-term planning. All of this suggests that a return is not just a dream, but a realistic goal if the current approach is maintained.
Does Hungary have a realistic chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup?
With the new 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup, Hungary's chances have increased considerably. Europe will have 16 direct qualification spots, giving more leeway to competitive teams that previously narrowly missed out.
Hungary has been part of Group G in previous qualifiers, facing opponents such as Serbia, Montenegro, and Bulgaria. Their performance has been more than decent, winning important matches and showing character in difficult games.
The key is to maintain consistency, avoid unnecessary defeats, and pick up points away from home.Factors that can make the difference
Keep Szoboszlai fit and motivated.
Consolidate a stable defense with Orbán and Lang.
Win every home game, especially against direct rivals.
Avoid the playoffs, where the margin for error is minimal.
Continue to rely on a solid tactical foundation and collective play.
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