Soccer-Last-gasp Parrott hat-trick books Ireland playoff spot over Hungary

Soccer Football - World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group F - Hungary v Republic of Ireland - Puskas Arena, Budapest, Hungary - November 16, 2025 Republic of Ireland's Troy Parrott scores their first goal from the penalty spot REUTERS/Bernadett Szabo

(Reuters) -A 96th-minute Troy Parrott goal to complete his hat-trick booked Ireland a spot in the playoffs for next year's World Cup with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over their nearest Group F rivals Hungary in a must-win game in Budapest.

Higher-ranked Hungary just needed a draw to secure second place and led 2-1 at halftime thanks to goals from Daniel Lukacs and Barnabas Varga, but Parrott's second goal of the night on 80 minutes and last-gasp winner ended the heartbroken hosts' qualification hopes.