Football News Global

Match Overview

The UEFA Nations League returns as Hungary hosts Ukraine in their opening Group Stage clash at the Puskás Aréna on Saturday, 26 September 2026. Both teams will be eager to start their campaign on a positive note, with promotion to League A a realistic target. Hungary, under the guidance of their experienced coach, will look to capitalize on home advantage, while Ukraine, managed by Serhiy Rebrov, aims to build on their recent competitive form.

Team News & Expected Lineups

Hungary is expected to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Dominik Szoboszlai as the creative hub in midfield. Key absences include Willi Orbán, who is sidelined with an injury, leaving a gap in defense. Ukraine will likely line up in a 4-3-3, with Mykhailo Mudryk and Artem Dovbyk leading the attack. The visitors will miss Oleksandr Zinchenko due to suspension, which could disrupt their midfield balance.

Hungary (3-4-2-1): Gulácsi; Lang, Szalai, Attila Szalai; Nego, Nagy, Ádám, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Sallai; Varga.

Ukraine (4-3-3): Trubin; Konoplya, Zabarnyi, Matviyenko, Mykolenko; Malinovskyi, Stepanenko, Sudakov; Tsygankov, Dovbyk, Mudryk.

Head-to-Head

Historically, Ukraine holds the upper hand, winning three of their last five encounters, with Hungary securing just one victory. The most recent meeting in 2023 ended in a 2-1 win for Ukraine, thanks to a late goal from Artem Dovbyk. However, Hungary has been strong at home, making this a closely contested fixture.

Key Players to Watch

Dominik Szoboszlai (Hungary): The captain and creative force, Szoboszlai’s vision and set-piece delivery will be decisive in breaking down Ukraine’s defense.

Roland Sallai (Hungary): His movement and link-up play in the final third could trouble Ukraine’s backline.

Mykhailo Mudryk (Ukraine): The speedy winger’s dribbling and directness will test Hungary’s defensive discipline.

Artem Dovbyk (Ukraine): A clinical finisher, Dovbyk’s aerial ability and positioning make him a constant threat.

Prediction & Analysis

Tactically, Hungary will rely on their compact defensive shape and quick transitions, with Szoboszlai orchestrating play. Ukraine, meanwhile, will look to dominate possession and exploit the flanks through Mudryk and Tsygankov. The absence of Zinchenko could hinder Ukraine’s buildup, giving Hungary a slight edge in midfield battles. Expect a tight game, but Hungary’s home advantage might see them edge a narrow 2-1 victory.