Once again, we had a special opportunity: thanks to the Csányi Foundation, we were able to watch the Hungarian national team play a World Cup qualifier against Portugal. On the way to the Puskás Arena, I already felt that something special awaited us—the city was filled with fans, chants echoed through the streets, and for one evening, Hungary was once again swept up in football fever.
True to Hungarian match traditions, we sang the “pre-anthem” together, the song Nélküled. Every seat was filled, and the fan choreography, inspired by the novel The Paul Street Boys, was breathtaking.
The match itself was a real emotional rollercoaster. In the 20th minute, we paid tribute with a standing ovation to Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away this summer, and his brother. Then, in the 21st minute, when Barnabás Varga scored, the stadium practically exploded—we hugged, jumped, and screamed, truly believing that anything could happen. However, the Portuguese did not give up easily: after goals by Bernardo Silva and Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal was leading as we entered the last half-hour. At that point, hope faded a little, as even a one-goal deficit against a team of this level is tough.
But when Varga scored again, hope was reignited, and the stadium erupted even more than at the first goal. Experiencing that live was incredible. Unfortunately, our joy was short-lived; a few minutes later, Portugal’s third goal sealed the match, but even in the final moments, we cheered for our team with all our hearts.
It was amazing to see such stars live, but for me, the greatest thrill was watching the Hungarian team in person and feeling the atmosphere. Eight years ago, we lost to Andorra and everyone wrote off the national team; now, after a narrow one-goal defeat against Portugal, we are disappointed—but it feels natural. In some sense, it’s understandable, as this match had so much potential. For the first time in 40 years, we have a realistic chance to play in the World Cup.
We sincerely thank the Foundation for this incredible experience, allowing us to be part of the match, and I hope that the “Bal sors” (ill fate) no longer tears us apart and that from the stands, we can be part of the moment when, this autumn or spring, Hungary qualifies for the World Cup.
Benjámin Palotai, Mohács 1