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Hungary dig out win in Armenia to hurt Irish hopes

Barnabas Varga heads home the winner
Barnabas Varga heads home the winner

Hungary had to hang tough, but they ultimately dug out a hard-fought 1-0 win against Armenia in Yerevan to dent the Republic of Ireland's World Cup play-off hopes on Thursday evening.

The Boys in Green were hoping Armenia could do them a favour by at least taking a point against Hungary, who host Ireland in Budapest on Sunday.

Instead, Barnabas Varga's 33rd-minute header proved enough to give the visitors a massive three points.

That means Ireland require at least a draw against Portugal at the Aviva Stadium tonight and a win in Hungary on Sunday to earn a spot in the play-offs.

If Ireland draw tonight, they would need a win by two clear goals in Budapest. If Heimir Hallgrimsson's men lose, the World Cup dream is officially over.

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