Hungary national football team facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Hungary

Nickname(s)	Magyarok (Magyars) Nemzeti Tizenegy (National Eleven) Trikólor (Tricolours)
Association	Magyar Labdarúgó Szövetség (MLSZ)
Confederation	UEFA (Europe)
Head coach	Marco Rossi
Captain	Dominik Szoboszlai
Most caps	Balázs Dzsudzsák (109)
Top scorer	Ferenc Puskás (84)
Home stadium	Puskás Aréna
FIFA code	HUN
First colours Second colours
FIFA ranking
Current	52 1 (7 February 2019)
Highest	18 (April–May 2016)
Lowest	87 (July 1996)
Elo ranking
Current	57 (3 March 2019)
Highest	1 (1953–57, 1958, 1964, 1965)
Lowest	80 (November 2003)
First international
Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 5–0 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Vienna, Austria; 12 October 1902)
Biggest win
Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 0–12 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Moscow, Russia; 14 July 1912) Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 13–1 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Budapest, Hungary; 12 June 1927) Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 12–0 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Budapest, Hungary; 24 September 1950)
Biggest defeat
Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 7–0 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Stockholm, Sweden; 30 June 1912) Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 7–0 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Cologne, Germany; 6 April 1941) Script error: The function "fb" does not exist. 8–1 Script error: The function "fb-rt" does not exist. (Amsterdam, Netherlands; 11 October 2013)
World Cup
Appearances	9 (first in 1934)
Best result	Runners-up (1938, 1954)
European Championship
Appearances	5 (first in 1964)
Best result	Third place (1964)
Medal record Men's football World Cup Silver 1938 France Team Silver 1954 Switzerland Team European Championship Bronze 1964 Spain Team Olympic Games Gold 1952 Helsinki Team Bronze 1960 Rome Team Gold 1964 Tokyo Team Gold 1968 Mexico City Team Silver 1972 Munich Team European International Cup Bronze 1931–32 Team Bronze 1933–35 Team Gold 1948–53 Team Silver 1955–60 Team Balkan Cup Gold 1947 Team

The Hungary national football team, also known as the Magyarok (Magyars), represents Hungary in international men's football. The team is famous for its incredible football history, especially the legendary Golden Team of the 1950s. They have won three Olympic gold medals and have been runners-up in two FIFA World Cups. The team plays its home games at the modern Puskás Aréna in Budapest.

Hungary was a dominant force in world football. The Golden Team, led by the great Ferenc Puskás, changed how the game was played. They went unbeaten for 31 games over four years, a record at the time. One of their most famous wins was the "Match of the Century" in 1953, where they beat England 6-3 at Wembley Stadium.

After many years of not qualifying for big tournaments, Hungary has seen a comeback. They have played in the last three UEFA European Championships in 2016, 2020, and 2024. They also earned a spot in the top level of the UEFA Nations League.

A Legendary History

The Beginning

The Hungarian team at the 1912 Summer Olympics.

Hungary played its first international match against Austria in 1902. The team's first big tournament was the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden. In the 1920s, Hungary was known for using a special 2–3–5 formation, which was very attacking.

In 1927, Hungary beat France 13–1, which is still a record win for the team. They also reached the final of the Central European International Cup, an early tournament for European national teams.

The Amazing 'Golden Team'

Hungary getting ready for the 1938 FIFA World Cup.

Hungary's first great success came at the 1938 FIFA World Cup in France. They played brilliantly and reached the final, where they lost to Italy. This team showed the world that Hungary was a top football nation.

The 1950s was the era of the Aranycsapat, or the Golden Team. This team is considered one of the best in football history. With amazing players like Ferenc Puskás, Sándor Kocsis, and Nándor Hidegkuti, they played a new, exciting style of football. For four years, from 1950 to 1954, they did not lose a single match for 31 games.

The Golden Team in 1954.

In 1952, they won the gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Helsinki. A year later, they shocked the world by beating England 6-3 at Wembley Stadium in London. England had never lost at home to a team from outside the British Isles before. This game is called the "Match of the Century."

At the 1954 FIFA World Cup, Hungary was the favorite to win. They scored an amazing 25 goals on their way to the final. In the final, they faced West Germany, a team they had already beaten 8-3 in the group stage. Hungary quickly went ahead 2-0, but West Germany made a surprising comeback to win 3-2. This match is known as "The Miracle of Bern."

The Golden Team's era ended after the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. Because of the difficult situation in the country, many star players, including Puskás, left Hungary and never played for the national team again.

More Success in the 1960s

Flórián Albert (left) and Kálmán Mészöly were key players in the 1960s.

Even after the Golden Team, Hungary remained a strong football nation in the 1960s. They won two more Olympic gold medals in 1964 and 1968, and a bronze medal in 1960. This makes Hungary the most successful country in men's Olympic football history.

The team also did well in other tournaments. They finished third at the 1964 European Nations' Cup. At the 1966 FIFA World Cup in England, they famously beat Brazil and reached the quarter-finals. A new star, Flórián Albert, was named European Footballer of the Year in 1967.

A Time of Struggle

After 1972, when Hungary won a silver medal at the Olympics and finished fourth at the European Championship, the team began to struggle. They played in the 1978, 1982, and 1986 World Cups but could not get past the group stage. The 10-1 win against El Salvador in 1982 is still the biggest win in World Cup history.

After the 1986 World Cup, Hungary went through a very difficult period. For 30 years, the team failed to qualify for any major tournament. Many of the country's football clubs faced problems, which affected the national team.

A Modern Comeback

The Hungarian team in 2011.

In the 2010s, things started to change for the better. A new generation of talented players began to emerge. The team finally returned to a major tournament by qualifying for UEFA Euro 2016. In France, they played very well, winning their group and reaching the round of 16.

This success continued, and Hungary qualified for UEFA Euro 2020 and UEFA Euro 2024. At Euro 2020, they were in a "group of death" with France, Germany, and Portugal. Even though they didn't advance, they earned draws against world champions France and Germany.

The team also impressed in the UEFA Nations League, beating England twice (including a 4-0 win away from home) and Germany. This showed that Hungary is once again a team that can compete with the best in Europe.

Team Identity

Rivalries

Hungary has a long football rivalry with its neighbor, Romania. Matches between the two countries are always very intense. Another historic rivalry is with Austria. The match between Austria and Hungary is the second most-played international game in football history.

Supporters

Hungarian fans cheering for their team.

The team is cheered on by a famous fan group called the Carpathian Brigade. They are known for their passionate support and creating an exciting atmosphere at matches. With loud chants, huge flags, and colorful displays, they follow the team across Europe to show their support. Many fans also come from Hungarian communities in neighboring countries like Romania, Slovakia, and Serbia.

Kits and Crest

Hungary's traditional home kit is a red shirt, white shorts, and green socks. These colors represent the Hungarian flag. The team's crest is the Coat of arms of Hungary, which is worn over the heart. Unlike many teams that wear their football association's logo, Hungary has always worn the national coat of arms.

Home Stadium

The outside of the Puskás Aréna

The inside of the Puskás Aréna

Hungary plays its home matches at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest. The stadium is named after the legendary player Ferenc Puskás. It opened in 2019 and can hold over 67,000 fans.

The new stadium was built on the site of the old Ferenc Puskás Stadium, which was famous for hosting the 7-1 victory over England in 1954. The Puskás Aréna is one of the most modern stadiums in Europe and hosted matches during UEFA Euro 2020.

Results and Fixtures

Here is a list of recent and upcoming matches for the team.

2025

Hungary v Script error: The function "fb" does not exist.

6 June Friendly	Hungary	0–2	Script error: The function "fb" does not exist.	Budapest, Hungary
19:30 CEST (UTC+02:00)	Zs. Nagy 48'		Nygren  49' Ayari  65'	Stadium: Puskás Aréna Attendance: 55,000 Referee: Atilla Karaoglan (Turkey)

Players

Current squad

The following players were part of the squad for the friendly matches in June 2025.

No.	Pos.	Player	Date of birth (age)	Caps	Goals	Club
1	1GK	Dénes Dibusz	(1990-11-16) 16 November 1990 (age 34)	44	0	Ferencváros
12	1GK	Balázs Tóth	(1997-09-04) 4 September 1997 (age 27)	1	0	Blackburn Rovers
22	1GK	Péter Szappanos	(1990-11-14) 14 November 1990 (age 34)	2	0	Paks
2	2DF	Attila Osváth	(1995-12-10) 10 December 1995 (age 29)	2	0	Paks
3	2DF	Botond Balogh	(2002-06-06) 6 June 2002 (age 23)	8	0	Parma
4	2DF	Attila Mocsi	(2000-05-29) 29 May 2000 (age 25)	1	0	Çaykur Rizespor
5	2DF	Gábor Szalai	(2000-06-09) 9 June 2000 (age 25)	1	0	Ferencváros
6	2DF	Willi Orbán	(1992-11-03) 3 November 1992 (age 32)	58	6	RB Leipzig
7	2DF	Loïc Négo	(1991-01-15) 15 January 1991 (age 34)	42	2	Le Havre
15	2DF	Márton Dárdai	(2002-02-12) 12 February 2002 (age 23)	15	0	Hertha BSC
8	3MF	Tamás Nikitscher	(1999-11-03) 3 November 1999 (age 25)	9	0	Valladolid
10	3MF	Dominik Szoboszlai (captain)	(2000-10-25) 25 October 2000 (age 24)	55	16	Liverpool
11	3MF	Milos Kerkez	(2003-11-07) 7 November 2003 (age 21)	23	0	Liverpool
13	3MF	András Schäfer	(1999-04-13) 13 April 1999 (age 26)	37	4	Union Berlin
14	3MF	Bendegúz Bolla	(1999-11-22) 22 November 1999 (age 25)	28	0	Rapid Wien
17	3MF	Callum Styles	(2000-03-28) 28 March 2000 (age 25)	24	0	West Bromwich Albion
18	3MF	Zsolt Nagy	(1993-05-25) 25 May 1993 (age 32)	31	3	Puskás Akadémia
21	3MF	Alex Tóth	(2005-10-23) 23 October 2005 (age 19)	3	0	Ferencváros
24	3MF	Bence Dárdai	(2006-01-24) 24 January 2006 (age 19)	3	0	VfL Wolfsburg
25	3MF	Áron Csongvai	(2000-10-31) 31 October 2000 (age 24)	2	0	AIK
26	3MF	Milán Vitális	(2002-01-28) 28 January 2002 (age 23)	0	0	Győr
16	4FW	Dániel Gazdag	(1996-03-02) 2 March 1996 (age 29)	30	4	Columbus Crew
19	4FW	Barnabás Varga	(1994-10-25) 25 October 1994 (age 30)	23	8	Ferencváros
20	4FW	Roland Sallai (vice-captain)	(1997-05-22) 22 May 1997 (age 28)	60	14	Galatasaray
23	4FW	Kevin Csoboth	(2000-06-20) 20 June 2000 (age 25)	19	1	St. Gallen

Player Records

Players in bold are still active with the national team.

Most Appearances

Balázs Dzsudzsák is Hungary's most capped player with 109 appearances.

Top Goalscorers

Ferenc Puskás is Hungary's all-time top scorer with 84 goals.

Competitive Record

FIFA World Cup

FIFA World Cup record
Year	Round	Position	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	Squad
1930	Did not enter
1934	Quarter-finals	6th	2	1	0	1	5	4	Squad
1938	Runners-up	2nd	4	3	0	1	15	5	Squad
1950	Did not enter
1954	Runners-up	2nd	5	4	0	1	27	10	Squad
1958	Group stage	10th	4	1	1	2	7	5	Squad
1962	Quarter-finals	5th	4	2	1	1	8	3	Squad
1966		6th	4	2	0	2	8	7	Squad
1970	Did not qualify
1974
1978	Group stage	15th	3	0	0	3	3	8	Squad
1982		14th	3	1	1	1	12	6	Squad
1986		18th	3	1	0	2	2	9	Squad
1990	Did not qualify
1994
1998
2002
2006
2010
2014
2018
2022
2026	To be determined
Total	Runners-up	9/23	32	15	3	14	87	57	—

UEFA European Championship

UEFA European Championship record
Year	Round	Position	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	Squad
1960	Did not qualify
1964	Third place	3rd	2	1	0	1	4	3	Squad
1968	Did not qualify
1972	Fourth place	4th	2	0	0	2	1	3	Squad
1976	Did not qualify
1980
1984
1988
1992
1996
2000
2004
2008
2012
2016	Round of 16	13th	4	1	2	1	6	8	Squad
2020	Group stage	20th	3	0	2	1	3	6	Squad
2024		18th	3	1	0	2	2	5	Squad
2028	To be determined
Total	Third place	5/17	14	3	4	7	16	25	—

Olympic Games

The gold medal of the 1952 Summer Olympics held in Helsinki.

Football at the Olympics was for senior national teams until 1988. Now it is a tournament for players under 23 years old.

Summer Olympics record (Senior Team Era)
Year	Host	Round	Position	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	Squad
1912	Stockholm	Round 2	10th	1	0	0	1	0	7	Squad
1924	Paris	Round 2	9th	2	1	0	1	5	3	Squad
1936	Berlin	Round 1	13th	1	0	0	1	0	3	Squad
1952	Helsinki	Gold medalists	1st	6	6	0	0	20	2	Squad
1960	Rome	Bronze medalists	3rd	5	4	0	1	17	9	Squad
1964	Tokyo	Gold medalists	1st	5	5	0	0	22	6	Squad
1968	Mexico City	Gold medalists	1st	5	5	1	0	18	3	Squad
1972	Munich	Silver medalists	2nd	7	5	1	1	21	5	Squad
Total		3 Gold medals	8 Appearances	32	26	2	5	103	38	—

Honours

Major competitions

• FIFA World Cup
  • Runners-up (2): 1938, 1954
• UEFA European Championship
  • Third place (1): 1964
• Olympic Games
  • Gold medal (3): 1952, 1964, 1968
  • Silver medal (1): 1972
  • Bronze medal (1): 1960

Regional

• Balkan Cup
  • Champions (1): 1947
• Central European International Cup
  • Champions (1): 1948–53

See also

In Spanish: Selección de fútbol de Hungría para niños

• Austria–Hungary football rivalry
• Hungary men's national under-17 football team
• Hungary men's national under-19 football team
• Hungary men's national under-21 football team
• Hungary-Romania football rivalry
• Hungary women's national football team