World Cup play-off explainer: Why Ireland are likely to be away for semi in March

Ireland defender Séamus Coleman celebrates after the World Cup 2026 Group F qualifying win over Hungary at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary. Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

So, after Troy Parrott’s stunning hat-trick secured a remarkable 3-2 victory away to Hungary, securing second in the group, for Ireland, it’s all eyes on the play-offs in March with hopes of a first World Cup since 2002 still alive.

Here is the lowdown on the play-off series for next summer’s finals in North America.