Szoboszlai opens up on anguish of Ireland defeat

Dominik Szoboszlai, the Hungary captain and Liverpool midfielder, has shared his profound heartbreak over Hungary's World Cup qualifier loss to Ireland last November in Budapest.

In a candid Sky Sports interview ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match against Arsenal, Szoboszlai listed his career ambitions, including winning the Champions League, retaining the Premier League title, and reaching the next Euros and 2026 World Cup with Hungary. He trailed off with a sigh: “Being in the next World Cup with Hungary after we… don’t talk about it.”[1][2]

Pressed on the defeat, where Troy Parrott’s hat-trick—including a last-gasp winner—snatched a play-off spot for Ireland in a thrilling 3-2 victory, Szoboszlai revealed: “It was very tough. I never felt more sad – I wasn’t angry, I was sad – more sad than this never, ever before.”[1][2][4] He was left in tears at the final whistle, as the result ended Hungary's direct qualification hopes.[3]

“I owe them a World Cup,” he added, vowing to make amends for his teammates and nation.[1][2]

Szoboszlai also turned his focus to club football, laying down a challenge to league leaders Arsenal. “It’s a long way, eh? The Premier League is not easy. You don’t win it by January. I don’t think we are playing against the champions. They play against the champions,” he said, praising Arsenal as favourites alongside Manchester City and Aston Villa while emphasizing Liverpool's defending champion status.[1][2]

The 11-and-a-half-minute interview highlights Szoboszlai's raw emotion, blending international anguish with steely Premier League resolve. Hungary's dream of a first World Cup since 1986 was shattered, but the 25-year-old remains determined.[1][2]

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