Dominik Szoboszlai and Milos Kerkez will not be involved in next summer’s World Cup after a shock defeat to the Republic of Ireland, despite both Liverpool players assisting.

Hungary went into their final World Cup qualifier at home to Ireland needing only a draw to earn progress to the playoff round.

And having gone 2-1 up before half-time after assists from Szoboszlai and Kerkez it looked certain that Marco Rossi’s side would get the job done.

But AZ Alkmaar striker Troy Parrott sealed a hat-trick, including a winner in the sixth minute of stoppage time, to ensure a remarkable turnaround.

With Ireland winning 3-2 they instead progress to the playoffs and Hungary will not be at the 2026 World Cup.

Why Hungary have not qualified for 2026 World Cup

While Alexander Isak‘s Sweden and Conor Bradley‘s Northern Ireland have booked their place in the playoffs despite finishing outside of the top two of their World Cup qualifying groups, the same does not apply to Hungary.

That comes due to their performance in the UEFA Nations League: while Sweden and Northern Ireland won their respective groups, Hungary were relegated.

It meant the World Cup qualifiers were their only chance of securing a spot at the tournament, which will be held in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Defeat to Ireland means that will not be the case – despite the efforts of Szoboszlai in particular, having scored one and assisted three in his six appearances in Group F.

Why Liverpool could see Hungary failure as a positive

Those within Liverpool will of course insist that the success of their players on the international stage is always viewed as a positive.

But ensuring the summer off for two of their key starters in Szoboszlai and Kerkez certainly has its benefits.

It should guarantee that the pair will not only return for pre-season well-rested, but also be able to take part in the full warmup programme ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The same applies to Giorgi Mamardashviliwho was unable to qualify with Georgia, and potentially for a number of other players including Isak and Bradley.

Liverpool do, however, have nine internationals whose countries have already guaranteed a spot at the World Cup: Florian Wirtz, Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, Ibrahima Konate, Hugo Ekitike, Alisson, Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo.