Bulgaria vs Hungary
European Championship Qualifying
Thursday
16th November 2023
Hristo Botev Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the European Championship Qualifying fixture between Bulgaria and Hungary.
Bulgaria vs Hungary: Preview
Bulgaria form analysis
Bulgaria’s recent run of European Championship Qualifying games has highlighted their limitations, with just 1 win from 5 matches. They started with an expected 0-3 away loss to Hungary, outclassed from start to finish by the hosts. There was a better display next game as they ground out a 1-1 away draw with Lithuania thanks to Petkov’s equalizer after initially going behind. However, familiar issues surfaced in a disappointing 1-1 home draw with Serbia, going ahead through Despodov before a late Lazovic goal cost them victory.
Things got worse next match with a 1-2 away loss to Montenegro, equalizing late through Borukov after going behind but conceding again in stoppage time. Most recently, their struggles continued with an expected 0-2 home defeat to Lithuania, caught out twice by clinical finishes after a passive first half. Overall, Bulgaria has lacked attacking spark while also looking extremely vulnerable defensively. With just 1 goal in their last 3 games, adding offensive threat is crucial.
Hungary form analysis
Hungary’s recent run of UEFA Nations League games has showcased a dangerous attack led by Varga and Sallai but also some defensive vulnerabilities. They started solidly by grinding out a goalless away draw with Montenegro despite intense pressure. Building on this resolute display, Hungary then secured an efficient 2-0 home win over Lithuania thanks to goals from Varga and Sallai. However, problems surfaced at the back next match despite beating Serbia 2-1 away. Going ahead fortuitously before a late Orbán winner after equalizing through Varga.
These defensive issues remained evident in their next game, a six goal thriller as Hungary beat Serbia 2-1 at home courtesy of Varga and Sallai strikes either side of Pavlovic’s temporary equalizer. Most recently they were held to a 2-2 home draw by Lithuania, with Szoboszlai’s penalty and Varga goal rallying them from two down. Overall, Hungary’s emerging attack continues to impress. But they need greater solidity at the back to get results against quality sides.
